■ 


FROM   THE  LIBRARY  OF 
REV.   LOUIS    FITZGERALD    BENSON,  D.  D. 

BEQUEATHED   BY  HIM   TO 

THE   LIBRARY  OF 

PRINCETON  THEOLOGICAL  SEMINARY 


Sccttog 


63% 


.- 


THE 


PSALMS  OF  DAVID, 


"WITH 


HYMNS  #  SPIRITUAL  SONGS. 


THE  CATECHISM,  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH. 
AND  LITURGY, 

OF  THE 

Reformed  Church  in  the  Netherlands, 


For  tbe  Use  of  tbe  Reformed  Dutch  Church  in  North-America 


NEW-YORK : 

^Published  by  D.  Smith  Sc  Forman,  B.  Crane, 

and  C.  Brown. 

A.  Walker,  Printer. 

1810. 


Extracts  from  the  Acts  of  the  Reverend  Synod  of  the  Re- 
formed Dutch  Church  in  North- America. 

October,    1788. 

4c  *nr*  he  Synod,  convinced  of  the  propriety  of  introducing 
J-  an  uniformity  of  English  Psalmody  in  their  Church- 
es, directed  that  a  Psalm  Book  be  formed  by  a  selection 
from  the  Versions  of  Dr.  Brady  and  Mr.  ISite,  Dr. 
Watts,  and  the  Book  at  present  in  use  in  the  Dutch 
Church  of  the  City  of  New  -York  ;  with  such  alterations 
as  may  be  found  necessary;  and  also  that  a  number  of 
Hymns  be  bound  up  in  the  same  Volume;  which,  when 
approved  of,  the  Synod  will  recommend  to  be  used  in  all 
the  churches  under  their  care,  where  Divine  Service  is 
performed  in  the  English  Language. 

"  The  Synod  farther  directed,  that  the  Heidelhergh  Ca- 
techism and  the  Compendium,  the  Confession  of  Faith  and 
the  Liturgy  of  the  Reformed  Church  in  the  Netherlands, 
as  they  are  translated  in  the  aforesaid  Psalm  Book  used  in 
the  Dutch  Church  of  the  City  of  New -York,  be  added  to 
the  Psalm  Book  and  Hymns." 


Synod  Extraordinary,  May,   1789. 

<i~T}  EPOR.T  being  made  that  the  Psalm  Book  and  Hymns 
lA.  were  prepared  agreeably  to  the  Direction  of  Synod, 
and  the  same  being  approved  of ;  it  was  ordered  that  the 
Reverend  Doctor  Livingston,  Professor  of  Theology  and 
Prseses  of  the  present  Synod,  be  requested  to  commit  them 
immediately  to  the  press,  and  when  completed,  to  affix 
thereto  his  name,  that  so  the  respective  congregations  may 
be  assured  that  this  publication  is  made  with  the  approba- 
tion and  by  the  authority  of  the  Synod.35 

AGREEABLY  to  the  aforegoing  resolutions,  I  hereby 
certify  that  the  Psalms  and  Hymns,  together  with  the  Ca- 
techism and  Compendium,  the  Confession  of  Faith  and 
Liturgy,  contained  in  this  Book,  are  the  same  which  the 
Reverend  Synod  have  approved,  and  now  recommend  to 
be  used  in  all  their  Churches  where  Divine  Service  is  per- 
formed in  the  English  Language. 

Given  at  New-York,  October  22,   1789. 

John  H.  Livingston. 


TABLE  OF  CONTENTS 

W»F    CATECHISM,    COMPENDIUM,    CONFESSION    OF    FAITH', 
J.ITUKGY, 


JL  HE  Catechism  Page     1 

The  Compendium  of  the  Christian  Religion  35 

The  Confession  of  Faith  44 

A  Prayer  on  the  Lord's  day  before  Sermon  67 

A  Prayer  on  the  Lord's  day  after  Sermon  68 
A  Prayer  before  the  Explanation  of  the  Catechism       72 

A  Prayer  after  the  Explanation  ib. 

A  Prayer  before  Ser?no?i  in  the  Week-  73 

A  Prayer  after  it  ib. 

Morning  Prayer  74 

Evening  Prayer  75 

A  Prayer  at  opening  the  Consistoru  ib. 

A  Prayer  at  the  close  of  it  76 

A  Prayer  at  the  meeting  of  the  Deacons  ib. 

Grace  before  Meat  77 

Grace  after  Meat  78- 

A  Prayer  for  sick  and  tempted  Persons*  ib. 

Another  79 

Form  of  Infant  Baptism  80 

Form  of  Baptism  of  adult  Persons  82 

Form  of  Administration  of  the  Lord's  Supper  Qs- 

Form  of  Excommunication  91 

Form  of  Re-admitting  Excommunicated  Persons  93 

Ordination  of  the  Ministers  of  God's  Word  96 

Ordination  of  Elders  and  Deacons  101 

Form  of  Confirmation  of  Marriage  106 

The  Consolation  of  the  Sick  1 1 1 

The  Mcene  Creed  1 1 9 

The  Athanasian  Creed  ib. 


A  TABLE 


TO  FIND  ANY  PSALM,  OR  PAR.T  OF  A  PSALM,  BY  THE 
FIRST  LINE-* 


ALMIGHTY  God  appear  and  save  Page     1 3 

Approach  ye  piously  disposed  49 

Against  all  those  that  strive  with  me  50 

Amidst  thy  wrath  remember  iove  60 

As  pants  the  hart  for  cooling  streams  67 

At  length  by  certain  proofs  'tis  plain  1 1 6 

Among  the  assemblies  of  the  great  138 

A  fruitful  land  where  streams  abound  186 

According  to  thy  promised  grace  208 

Arise,  O  King  of  grace,  arise  233 

Along  the  banks  where  Babel's  current  Hows  240 

Around  the  yawning  graves  our  bones  246 

B 

Behold  the  lofty  sky  25 

Behold  the  morning  sun  26 

Blest  is  the^man,  for  ever  blest  45 

Blest  is  the  nation,  where  the  Lord  47 

Behold  us,  Lord,  and  let  our  cry  85 

But  still  they  tempted,  stiil  provoked  1 30 

But  let  such  vengeance  come  to  them  1 39 

Before  Jehovah's  awful  throne  }66 

Bless  God,  my  soul :  thou  Lord  alone  172 

But  still  the  vast  unfathomed  main  175 

Behold  the  sure  foundation  stone  20 

Be  gracious  to  thy  servant  Lord  204 

Blessed  Sion  does,  in  God's  esteem  234 

C 

Consider  my  affliction,  Lord  221 

D 

David  rejo  ced  in  God  his  strength  29 

Deceitful  thoughts  and  practices  215 

£ 

Early,  my  God,  without  delay  ?g 

A  2 


Vi  A  TABLE. 

F 

Firm  was  my  health,  my  day  was  bright  Page  4 1 

From  shame  and  insults  set  me  free  42 

False  witnesses,  with  forged  complaints  52 

Fir  as  thy  name  is  known  75 

From  foes,  that  round  us  rise  91 

For  benefits,  each  day  bestowed  107 

Father,  I  sing  thy  wondrous  grace  1 10 

From  all  that  dwell  below  the  skies  198 

For  ever  and  for  ever,  Lord  2 1 3 

Firm  and  unmoved  are  they  228 

From  my  youth  up,  may  Israel  say  231 

From  lowest  depths  of  woe  ibid. 

For  ever  blest  be  God  the  Lord  249 

G 

God  of  my  life,  look  gently  down  62 

God  is  our  refuge  in  distress  72 

Great  is  the  Lord  our  God  74 

Great  God,  indulge  my  humble  claim  97 

Great  God,  attend  to  my  complaint  99 

God  of  my  childhood,  and  my  youth  1 12 

Great  God  attend  while  Sion  sings  141 

God  in  his  earthly  temple  lays  145 

God  of  eternal  love  182 

God  of  my  mercy  and  my  praise  190 

God  is  the  Lord,  through  whom  we  all  201 

Great  is  the  Lord,  exalted  high  236 

Give  thanks  to  God  most  high  238 

H 

How  blest  is  he  who  ne'er  consents  1 

How  long  shall  I  repine  14 

How  fast  their  guilt  and  sorrows  rise  17 

He's  blessed  whose  tender  care  66 

His  chariots  numberless  ;  his  pow'rs  106 

His  providence  for  needy  souls  1 1 5 

How  awful  is  thy  chast'ning  rod  125 

Hear,  O  my  people,  to  my  law  126 

Hold  not  thy  peace,  O  Lord,  our  God  138 

How  pleasant,  how  divinely  fair  140 

He  that  hath  made  his  refuge  God  154 

He  reigns  ;  the  Lord,  the  Saviour  reigns  1 63 

Hear  me,  O  God,  nor  hide  thy  face  168 
How  blest  are  they  who  always  keep 

How  shall  the  young  secure  their  hearts  203 


A  TABLE.  vii 

How  did  my  heart  rejoice  to  hear  Page  225 

Had  not  the  Lord  (may  Israel  say)  227 

How  vast  must  their  advantage  be  235 

Happy  the  city,  where  their  sons  250 

I 

In  thee,  great  God,  with  songs  of  praise  *   28 

I  lift  my  soul  to  God  35 

I  will  extol  thee,  Lord,  on  high  41 

In  wait  the  watchful  sinners  lie  59 

I  waited  patient  for  the  Lord  63 

In  haste,  O  God,  attend  my  call  1 10 

In  Judah  the  Almighty's  known  122 

It  is  the  Lord  our  Saviour's  hand  170 

I  love  the  Lord  :  he  heard  my  cries  197 

Instruct  me  in  thy  statutes,  Lord  206 

Is  there  ambition  in  my  heart  232 

In  solemn  state,  O  God,  descend  249 

J 

Judge  me,  O  Lord,  and  prove  my  ways  37 

Just  Judge  of  heaven,  against  my  foe&  69 

Judges,  who  rule  the  world  by  laws  90 

Jehovah  reigns,  let  all  1 65 

Judgment  and  justice  I  have  done  2 17 

L 

Lord,  in  the  morning  thou  shult  hear  5 

Lord  I  am  thine  ;  but  thou  wilt  prove  19 

Lord,  we  have  heard  thy  works  of  old  69 

Lord,  I  am  vile,  conceived  in  sin  8 1 

^et  sinners  take  their  course  87 

Lord  thou  hast  scourged  our  guilty  land  93 

Let  God,  the  God  of  battle,  rise  104 

Lord  let  thy  just  decrees  the  king  1 1 3 

Lord,  thou  hast  called  thy  grace  to  mind  142 

Lord,  if  thine  eyes  survey  our  faults  153 

Lord,  'tis  a  pleasant  tiling  to  stand  157 

Let  Sionand  her  sons  rejoice  169 

Lord,  thou  hast  heard  thy  servant  cry  200 

Let  David,  Lord,  a  constant  place  233 

Let  every  tongue  thy  goodness  speak  252 

Let  Zion  praise  the  mighty  God  254 

Loud  hallelujahs  to  the  Lord  255 

M 

My  God,  how  many  are  my  fears  3 

My  trust  is  in  my  heavenly  friend  $ 


viii  A  TABLE. 

Mistaken  foes,  your  ill  design  Page    10 

My  God  my  God  1  why  leav'st  thou  me  29 

My  agonies  the  gazing  crowd  30 

My  joints  are  rack'd,  and  out  of  frame  31 

Mine  eyes  and  my  desire  36 

My  heart  rejoices  in  thy  name  44 

My  sins  exceed  in  their  amount  65 

My  God  in  whom  are  all  the  springs  89 

My  soul  of  thy  protection  sure  95 

My  soul  for  help  on  God  relies  ibid. 

My  spirit  looks  to  God  alone  96 

My  God,  permit  my  tongue  98 

My  God,  my  everlasting  hope  1 1 1 

My  Saviour,  my  almighty  friend  1 1 2 

Mercy  and  judgment  are  my  song  167 

My  soul,  inspir'd  with  sacred  love  1 7 1 

My  soul  lies  cleaving  to  the  dust  205 

My  soul,  with  long  expectance,  faints  2 1 2 

My  God,  accept  my  early  vows  245 

My  righteous  judge  my  gracious  God  247 

3VIy  God,  my  King,  thy  various  praise  250 

N 

No  change  of  time  shall  ever  shock  20 

Now  may  the  God  of  power  and  grace  27 

Now  be  my  heart  inspired  to  sing  71 

Now  shall  my  solemn  vows  be  paid  103 

Not  to  ourselves,  who  are  but  dust  196 

O 

O  God  of  grace  and  righteousness  4 

O  Lord,  our  heavenly  King  8 

Oh  join  your  hearts  in  one  accord  10 

O  !  all  ye  saints,  the  Lord  45 

O  !  Lord,  thy  mercy,  my  sure  hope  55 

Oh  for  a  shout  of  sacred  joy  74 

O  thou  that  hear'st  when  sinners  cry  82 

O  God,  my  refuge,  hear  my  cries  86 

O  thou  whose  justice  reigns  on  high  88 

O  God,  who  hast  our  troops  disperst  92 

O  Israel's  shepherd,  Joseph's  guide  133 

Our  God  our  help  in  ages  past  152 

O  God  !  to  whom  revenge  belongs  158 

O  come,  loud  anthems  let  us  sing  1 60 

O  render  thanks,  and  bless  the  Lord  176 

O  render  thanks  to  God  above  J  80 


A  TABLE.  is 

O  God,  my  heart  is  fully  bent  JPage   187 

O  God,  whose  former  mercies  make  188 

O  Israel  make  the  Lord  your  trust  196 

O  praise  the  Lord  for  he  is  good  199 

O  thou  whose  grace  and  justice  reign  226 

O  praise  ye  the  Lord                                             v  25-7 

P 

Preserve  me,  Lord,  in  time  of  need  17 

Praise  waits  in  Sion,  Lord  for  thee  99 

Praise  ye  the  Lord,  our  God  to  praise  192 

Praise  the  Lord  with  one  consent  235 

Preserve  me,  Lord,  from  crafty  foes  244 

Praise  ye  the  Lord,  my  heart  shall  join  25 S 

F.  .use  ye  the  Lord  ;  'tis  good  to  raise  254 

Praise  ye  the  Lord,  all  nature  join  258 

R 

^Rejoice,  ye  righteous,  in  the  Lord  46 

•Remorseless  wretches,  void  of  sense  184 

S 

Since  I  have  plac'd  my  trust  in  God  13 

Sure  wicked  fools  must  needs  suppose  15 

Soon  as  I  heard  my  father  say  39 

So  I  before  the  list'ning  world  "2 

Shew  pity,  Lord,  O  Lord  forgive  SO 

Sing  all  ye  nations  to  the  Lord  102 

Save  me,  O  God,  from  waves  that  roll  108 

Sure  there's  a  righteous  God  119 

ion  is  for  ever  nigh  149 

.t  is  the  work,  my  God  my  King  156 

Sing  to  the  Lord,  anew  made  song  161 

Some  sit,  with  darkness  compass'd  rouqd  183 

Sweet  is  the  mem'ry  of  thy  grace  251 

T 

Thy  anger,  Lord,  restrain  6 

To  celebrate  thy  name,  O  Lord  9 

To  my  just  plea  and  sad  complaint  19 

The  Lord  did  on  my  side  engage  22 
Thou  suit'st,  O  Lord,  thy  righteous  rule                       ibid. 

:Tis  God  that  girds  my  armour  on  25 

The  people  oft  at  strife  till  noAv  24 

Thus  in  thy  courts,  thy  name  I'll  blesr  .32 

The  Lord  himself  doth  condescend  33 


x  A  TABLE. 

This  spacious  earth  is  all  the  Lord's  Page     34 

To  thee,  O  Lord,  I  raise  my  cries  39 

To  thee,  O  God  of  truth  and  love  43 

Through  all  the  changing  scenes  of  life  48 

Then  1  resolve  before  the  Lord  61 

Teach  me  the  measure  of  my  days  62 

The  wonders,  Lord,  thy  love  has  wrought  64 

The  King  of  saints  how  fair  his  foce  7 1 

The  Lord  of  hosts  conducts  our  arms  73 

The  Lord,  the  judge,  before  his  throne  78 

Thus  saitli  the  Lord,  "  the  spacious  field?  79 

The  Lord,  the  Judge  his  churches  warns  80 

The  wicked  fools  must  sure  suppose  84 

Thy  mercy,  Lord,  to  me  extend  89 

The  God  of  our  salvation  hears  1 00 

To  bless  thy  chosen  race  103 

To  fathom  this  my  thoughts  I  bent  1 1 7 

To  thee,  most  high  and  holy  God  1 2 1 

To  God  I  cry'd  with  mournful  voice  123 

The  heathen  hosts,  O  God  132 

Thou  brought'st  a  vine  from  Egypt's  land  1 34 

To  thee,  O  God  of  nests,  we  pray  135 

To  God,  our  never  failing  strength  136 

'To  my  compiaint,  O  Lord  aay  God  143 

Teach  me,  O  Lord,  thy  sacred  way  144 

To  thee,  my  God  and  Saviour,  I  145 

Thy  mercies,  Lord,  shall  be  my  song  147 

Thus  spak'st  thou  by  thy  prophet's  voice  149 

The  Lord  is  come  ;  the  heavens  proclaim  1 63 

The  Almighty  reigns  exalted  high  1 64 

To  our  Almighty  Maker,  God  ibid. 

The  chrystal  streams  from  mountains  drawn  173 

The  trees  of  God,  without  the  care  1 74 

To  Egypt  then,  invited  guests  178 

To  God,  the  great,  the  ever  blest  181 

To  God  your  grateful  voices  raise  182 

They  that  in  ships,  with  courage  bold  185 

The  Lord  the  eternal  Father  spake  1 9 1 

That  man  is  blessed  who  stands  in  awe  1 9  3 

The  Lord  appears  my  helper  now  199 

This  is  the  day  the  Lord  hath  made  201 

Thy  constant  blessing,  Lord,  bestow  207 

Thou  art  my  portion,  O  my  God  209 


A  TABLE.  xi 

To  mc,  who  am  the  workmanship  Page    2 1 1 

The  love  that  to  thy  laws  I  bear  2 1 4 

Thy  word  is  to  my  feet  a  lamp  2 1 5 

The  wonders  which  thy  laws  contain  2 1 8 

Thou  art  the  righteous  judge,  in  whom  2 1 9 

Though  mighty  tyrants  without  cause  222 

To  my  request  and  earnest  cry  223 

Thou  God  of  love,  thou  ever  blest  224 

To  Sion's  hill  I  lift  my  eyes  225 

The  man  is  blest  who  fears  the  Lord  230 

Tne  Lord  is  good  ;  and  works  unknown  237 

The  God  of  heaven  maintains  his  state  241 

Thou,  Lord,  by  strictest  search  hast  known  242 

To  God  with  mournful  voice  246 

W 

With  restless  and  ungoverned  rage  2 

Why  doth  the  Lord  depart  so  far  1 2 

Who  shall  ascend  thy  heavenly  place  1 6 

When  God  is  nigh,  my  faith  is  strong  1 8 

When  God  arose  my  part  to  take  21 

Where  shall  the  man  be  found  36 

Whom  should  I  fear,  since  God  to  me  38 

While  I  keep  silence  and  conceal  46 

Whate'er  the  mighty  God  decrees  48 

When  man  grows  bold  in  sin  54 

Why  should  I  vex  my  soul  and  fret  56 

While  sinful  crouds  with  false  design  57 

Whilst  sinners  brought  to  sad  decay  58 

Why  doth  the  man  of  riches  grow  76 

Why  should  the  haughty  hero  boast  83 

While  unbelievers  make  their  boast  84 

When  overwhelmed  with  grief  94 

When  God  his  gracious  word  sent  forth  105 

We  bless  the  Lord,  the  just,  the  good  106 

WUi  God  for  ever  cast  us  off  119 

Waist  I  my  solemn  will  declare  1 37 

With  giory  clad  with  strength  arrayed  158 

Wuo  will  arise  and  plead  my  right  1 59 

When  Israel  freed  from  Pharaoh's  hand  195 

What  shall  I  render  to  my  God  1 9  8 

With  me  thy  servant  thou  hast  dealt  210 

With  my  whole  heart  to  God  I  CcJlcd  220 

When  God  revealed  his  gracious  name  228 


xii  A  TABLE. 

We  build  with  fruitless  toil  and  cost  Page  229 

With  my  whole  heart,  my  God  and  King  24 1 

Y 

Ye  princes,  that  in  might  excel  40 

Ye  sons  of  pride,  that  hate  the  just  77 

Yet  still  they  sinned  nor  would  afford  128 

Ye  sons  of  men,  a  feeble  race  155 

Ye  servants  of  the  Almighty  King  194 

Ye  Kings  and  Judges  fear  256 


A  TABLE 


TO  FIND  ANY  HYMN,  OR  PART  OF  A  HYMN,  BY  THE 
FIRST  LINE. 


ALMIGHTY  God,  we  praise  and  own  Page  269 

And  did  the  holy  and  the  just  279 

Amazing  grace  !  how  sweet  the  sound  285 

Among  the  princes,  earthly  gods  307 

Ascend  thy  throne,  almighty  King  ibid 

As  when  the  weary  traveller  gains  314? 

At  thy  command,  our  dearest  Lord  328 

Awake,  awake  the  sacred  song  333 

Awhile  remained  the  doubtful  strife  336 

B 

Backsliders,  who  your  misery  feel  275 

Blest  be  the  tie  that  binds  284 

Blest  Jesus,  source  of  every  grace  285 

Bless,  O  Lord,  the  opening  year  332 

Blessed  God,  that  once  in  fiery  tongues  336 

C 

Come  let  us  search  our  ways  and  try  300 

Christ  the  Lord  is  risen  to-day  3  3 4 

D 

Destruction's  dangerous  road  265 

Dost  thou  my  profit  seek  336 

Dismiss  us  with  thy  blessing,  Lord  339 

E 

Eternal  King  !  the  greatest,  best  262 

Enslaved  in  sin  and  bound  in  chains  263 

Eternal  Spirit !  we  confess  283 

Eternal  God  !  Almighty  cause  295 

Eternal  Sovereign  of  the  sky  299 

Eternal  King,  enthroned  above  316 

Eternal  source  of  every  joy  33 1 

F 

Faith  !  'tis  a  precious  grace  266 

Father  of  alii  eternal  mind  305 

Frequent  the  day  of  God  returns  338 


xiv  A  TABLE. 

G 
God  moves  in  a  mysterious  way  Page  269 

Goci  with  us  1  O  glorious  name  -         275 

G  eat  source  ot  order,  Maker  wise  298 

G  eat  God  thy  holy  law  commands  30 1 

G;  ace  has  enabled  me  to  love  302 

Giory  to  God  on  high  330 

God  of  our  lives,  thy  constant  care  332 

Great  Ruier  of  the  earth  and  skies  335 

H 

Hear  the  terms  that  never  vary  261 

Honor  and  happiness  unite  274 

Hark  the  glad  sound!  the  Saviour's  come  276 

How  sweet* and  awful  is  the  place  292 

How  can  I  sink  with  such  a  prop  293 

Hoiy  and  reverend  is  the  name  296 

Here  Lord,  my  soul  convicted  stands  303 

How  condecending,  and  how  kind  3 1 9 

How  rich  are  thy  provisions,  Lord  327 

Hark  the  herald  angel  sing  333 

I 

In  God  the  Father  I  believe  266 

I'm  not  asham'd  to  own  my  Lord  272 

Immortal  God,  on  thee  we  call  278 

It  is  the  Lord — enthron'd  in  light  308 

In  thee,  O  God,  we  put  our  trust  342 

J 

Jesus,  the  spring  of  joys  dvine  273 

Jesus  the  Lord  our  souls  adore  2 1 8 

Jesus  invites*  his  saints  29 1 

Jesus,  in  thee  our  eyes  behold  ibid 

Jesus  is  gone  above  the  skies  3 1 8 

Jesus,  once  for  sinners  slain  326 

L 

Lord  thy  imputed  righteousness  286 

Let  those  who  bear  the  christian  name  297 

Lord,  at  thy  feet  we  sinners  lie  310 

Let  me,  my  Saviour  and  my  God  3 1 2 

Let  me  with  light  and  truth  be  bless'd  317 

Let  us  adore  th'  eternal  word  3 1 9 

Lord,  how  divine  thy  comforts  are  320 

Lord,  I  am  thine,  entirely  thine  324 

Lord  at  thy  table  I  behold  329 

2x>rd,  I  am  pain'd  but  I  resign  335 


A  TABLE.  xv 
Lord,  thou  wilt  hear  me  when  I  pray                  Page  337 

Lord  let  thy  servant  now  depart  341 

Lo  !  on  a  narrow  neck  of  land  341 

M 

My  songs  shall  bless  the  Lord  of  all  264 

Messiah's  come — with  joy  behold  ibid 

My  Saviour  God,  my  sov 'reign  Prince  288 

N 

Now  to  the  Lord,  that  made  us  know  282 

No  more,  my  God,  I  boast  no  more  287 

Not  the  malicious  or  profane  294 

Now  be  the  God  of  Israel  bless'd  340 

O 

Our  nat'ral  and  our  fed'ral  head  260 

O  Christ,  thou  glorious  King  we  owii  274 

O  Lord,  when  faith  with  fixed  eyes  277 

Our  Lord  is  risen  from  the  dead  281 

Our  grateful  tongues  immortal  King  3 1 3 

Once  more,  my  soul,  the  rising  day  337 

Our  souls  shall  magnify  the  Lord  340 

P 

Pray'r  is  appointed  to  convey  304 

Pity  a  helpless  sinner,  Lord  325 

r 

Return  my  soul  enjoy  thy  rest  298 

Religion  is  the  chief  concern  301 

Rejoice  believer  in  the  Lord  312 

Rejoice  the  Lord  is  King  335 

S 

Substantial  comfort  will  not  grow  259 

Stretch'd  on  the  cross  the  Saviour  dies-  277 

Supreme  in  mercy  who  shall  dare  284* 

So  let  our  lips  and  lives  express  294 

Shall  we  go  on  to  sin  295 

Sov'reign  of  all  the  worlds  on  high  306 

Shout  and  proclaim  the  Saviour's  love  528 

T 

To  comprehend  the  Three  in  One  268 

Tho'  troubles  assail  270 

The  virgin's  promised  son  is  bom  275 

'Tis  finished  the  Redeemer  cries  280 

5Twas  the  commission  of  our  Lord  288 

Thus  saith  the  mercy  of  the  Lord  289 

?Twas  on  that  dark*  that  doleful  night  290 


xvi  A  TABLE. 

Thou  art,  O  God  !  a  Spirit  pure  Page  296 

Tho'  Lord  our  hands  have  not  been  stained  299 

Thou  reign'st  O  Lord,  thy  throne  is  high  307 

Thro'  all  the  various  shifting  scenes  309 

Thus  fur  my  God  hath  led  me  on  311 

Teach  us,  O  Lord,  aright  to  plead  3 14 

The  King  of  heaven  his  table  spreads  3 1 5 

The  King  of  heaven  a  fei  st  has  made  ibid 

The  broken  bread,  the  blessed  cup  316 

3Twas  his  own  love  that  made  him  bleed  320 

The  blest  memorials  of  thy  grief  ibid. 

That  doleful  night  before  his  death  336 

To  thee  who  reign'st  supreme  above  334 

To  distant  lands  thy  gospel  send  339 

V 

Vain  are  the  hopes  the  sons  of  men  260 

W 

We  bless  the  prophet  of  the  Lord  273 

While  on  the  verge  of  life  I  stand  278 

We  are  a  garden  wall'd  around  283 

With  what  delight  I  raise  my  eyes  293 

We  own,  O  Lord,  thy  precept  just  300 

Whate'er  thy  lot  on  earth  may  be  302 

Where  is  my  God  ?  does  he  retire  304 

When  the  blest  day  of  Pentecost  335 

While  o'er  our  guilty  land,  O  Lord  333 

Welcome  sweet  day  of  rest  338 

We  sing  the  glories  of  thy  love  539 

Ye  wretched,  hungry,  starving  poor  3 1 5 


PSALMS  OF  DAYID^ 


Psalm  1.    c.  m. 

1  '  [T O W  blest  is  he  who  ne'er  consents 
Jfl     By  ill  advice  to  walk  ; 

Nor  stands  in  sinners'  ways,  nor  sits 
Where  men  profanely  talk  ! 

2  But  makes  the  perfect  law  of  God 

His  bus'ness  and  delight ; 
Devoutly  reads  therein  by  day, 
And  meditates  by  night. 

3  Like  some  fair  tree,  which,  fed  by  streamy 

With  timeiy  fruit  does  bend, 
He  still  shall  flourish,  and  success 
All  his  designs  attend. 

4  Ungodly  men,  and  their  attempts. 

No  lasting  root  shall  find  ; 

Untimely  blasted,  and  dispers'd, 

Like  chaff  before  the  wind. 

5  Their  guilt  shall  strike  the  wicked  dumb 

Before  their  Judge's  face ; 
No  formal  hypocrite  shall  then, 
Among  the  saints  have  place. 

6  For  God  approves  the  just  man's  ways  ; 

To  happiness  they  tend ; 
But  sinners,  and  the  paths  they  tread. 
Shall  both  in  ruin  end. 


2  PSALM  II. 

Psalm  2.     c.  M. 

1  T  T  7*  ITH  restless  and  ungoverned  rage, 

V  V       Why  do  the  Heathen  storm  ? 
Wny  in  such  rash  attempts  engage, 
As  they  can  ne'er  perform  ? 

2  The  great  in  counsel,  and  in  might, 

Their  various  forces  ^bring  ; 
Against  the  Lord  they  all  unite, 
And  his  anointed  King. 

3  "  Must  we  submit  to  their  commands  ?" 

Presumptuously  they  say ; 
"  No  ;  let  us  break  their  slavish  bands, 
"  And  cast  their  chains  away." 

4  But  God,  who  sits  enthroned  on  high, 

And  sees  how  they  combine, 
Does  their  conspiring  strength  defy, 
And  mocks  their  vain  design. 

5  Thick  clouds  of  wrath  divine  shall  break 

On  his  rebellious  foes  ; 
And  thus  will  he  in  thunder  speak, 
To  all  that  dare  oppose. 

5  "  Though  madly  you  dispute  my  will, 
"  The  King  that  I  ordain, 
"  Whose  throne  is  fixed  on  Sion's  hill, 
"  Shall  there  securely  reign." 

7  Attend,  O  earth,  whilst  I  declare 

God's  uncontrolFd  decree : 
"  Thou  art  my  Son ;  this  day,  my  heir, 
"  Have  I  begotten  thee. 

8  "  Ask  and  receive  thy  full  demands, 

"  Thine  shall  the  heathen  be  : 
"  The  utmost  limits  of  the  lands 
"  Shall  be  possessed  by  thee. 


PSALM  III.  * 

9  "  Thy  threatening  sceptre  thou  shalt  shake, 
"  And  crush  them  every  where ; 
ie  As  massy  bars  of  iron  break 
"  The  potter's  brittle  ware." 

10  Learn  then,  ye  princes  ;  and  give  ear, 

Ye  judges  of  the  earth  : 
Worship  the  Lord  with  holy  fear : 
Rejoice  with  awful  mirth. 

1 1  Appease  the  Son,  with  due  respect 

Your  timely  homage  pay  ; 
Lest  he  revenge  the  bold  neglect, 
Incensed  by  your  delay. 

12  If  but  in  part  his  anger  rise, 

Who  can  endure  the  flame  ? 
Then  blest  are  they  whose  hope  relies 
On  his  most  holy  Name. 

Psalm  3.     c.  M. 

1  T\  yf"Y  God,  how  many  are  my  fears  ! 
A. V X     How  fast  my  foes  increase  ! 
Conspiring  my  eternal  death, 

They  break  my  present  peace. 

2  The  lying  tempter  would  persuade 

There's  no  relief  in  Heaven, 
And  all  my  growing  sins  appear 
Too  great  to  be  forgiven. 

3  But  thou,  my  glory,  and  my  strength; 

Shalt  on  the  tempter  tread, 
Shalt  silence  all  my  threat'ning  guilt, 
And  raise  my  drooping  head. 

4  I  cried,  and  from  his  holy  hill 

He  bow'd  a  list'ning  ear  ; 
I  called  my  Father,  and  my  God, 
And  he  subdu'd  my  fear. 


4  PSALM  IV. 

5  He  shed  soft  slumbers  on  mine  eyes, 

In  spite  of  all  my  foes  : 
I  woke  and  wondered  at  the  grace 
That  guarded  my  repose. 

6  What  though  the  hosts  of  death  and  hell 

All  armed  against  me  stood  ; 
Terrors  no  more  shall  shake  my  soul ; 
My  refuge  is  my  God. 

7  Arise,  O  Lord,  fulfil  thy  grace, 

While  I  thy  glory  sing  ; 
My  God  has  broke  the  serpent's  teeth, 
And  death  has  lost  his  sting. 

8  Salvation  to  the  Lord  belongs, 

His  arm  alone  can  save ; 
Blessings  attend  thy  people  here, 
And  reach  beyond  the  grave. 

Psalm  4.    l.  m. 

1  /^\  GOD  of  grace  and  righteousness, 
V^/  Hear  and  attend  when  I  complain ; 
Thou  hast  enlarged  me  in  distress, 
Bow  down  a  gracious  ear  again. 

2  Ye  sons  of  men  in  vain  ye  try 
To  turn  my  glory  into  shame  ; 
How  long  will  scoffers  love  to  lie, 

And  dare  reproach  my  Saviours  name  f 

3  Know  that  the  Lord  divides  his  saints 
From  all  the  tribes  of  men  beside  ; 
He  hears  and  pities  their  complaints, 
For  the  dear  sake  of  Christ  that  died. 

4  When  our  obedient  hands  have  done 
A  thousand  works  of  righteousness, 
We  put  our  trust  in  God  alone, 
And  giory  in  his  pard'ning  grace 


PSALM  V. 

5  Let  the  unthinking  many  say, 

"  Whoxvill  bestow  some  earthly  good?" 
But,  Lord,  thy  light  and  love  we  pray ; 
Our  souls  desire  this  heavenly  food. 

6  Then  shall  my  cheerful  powers  rejoice 
At  grace  divine,  and  love  so  great ; 
Nor  will  I  change  my  happy  choice 
For  all  their  wealth  and  boasted  state. 

Psalm  5.    c.  m. 

1  X    ORD,  in  the  morning  thou  shalt  hear 

1  a  My  voice  ascending  high ; 
To  thee  will  I  direct  my  prayer, 
To  thee  lift  up  mine  eye. 

2  Up  to  the  hills  where  Christ  is  gone 

To  plead  for  all  his  saints, 
Presenting  at  his  father's  throne, 
Our  songs  and  our  complaints. 

3  Thou  art  a  God,  before  whose  sight 

The  wicked  shall  not  stand ; 

Sinners  shall  ne'er  be  thy  delight. 

Nor  dwell  at  thy  right  hand. 

4  But  to  thy  house  will  1  resort, 

To  taste  ihy  mercies  there  ; 
I  will  frequent  thine  holy  court; 
And  worship  in  thy  fear. 

5  O  may  thy  spirit  guide  my  feet 

In  ways  of  righteousness  ! 
Make  every  path  of  duty  straight, 
And  plain  before  my  face. 

6  My  watchful  enemies  combine 

To  tempt  my  feet  astray  ; 
They  flatter  with  a  base  design, 
To  make  my  soul  their  prey. 


6  PSALM  VI. 

7  Lord,  crush  the  serpent  in  the  dust, 

And  all  his  plots  destroy ; 
While  those  that  in  thy  mercy  trust, 
Forever  shout  for  joy. 

8  The  men  that  love  and  fear  thy  name, 

Shall  see  their  hopes  fulfilled  ; 
The  mighty  God  will  compass  them 
With  favour  as  a  shield. 

Psalm  6.    c.  m. 

1  f  |  ^HY  dreadful  anger,  Lord,  restrain, 

X       And  spare  a  wretch  forlorn  ; 
Correct  me  not  in  thy  fierce  wrath, 
Too  heavy  to  be  borne. 

2  Have  mercy,  Lord,  for  I  grow  faint, 

Unable  to  endure 
The  anguish  of  my  aching  bones, 
Which  thou  alone  canst  cure. 

3  My  tortured  flesh  distracts  my  mind, 

And  fills  my  soul  with  grief : 
But,  Lord,  how  long  wilt  thou  delay 
To  grant  me  thy  relief  ? 

4  Thy  wonted  goodness,  Lord,  repeat, 

And  ease  my  troubled  soul : 
Lord,  for  thy  wondrous  mercy's  sake, 
Vouchsafe  to  make  me  whole. 

5  For  after  death  no  more  can  I 

On  earth  thy  acts  proclaim  ; 
No  pris'ner  of  the  silent  grave 
Can  magnify  thy  name. 

6  Quite  tir'd  with  pain,  with  groaning  faint, 

No  hope  of  ease  I  see  ; 
The  night,  that  quiets  common  grief, 
Is  spent  in  tears  by  me. 


fSALM  VII. 

7  My  beauty  fades,  my  sight  grows  dim, 

My  eyes  with  weakness  close  ; 
Old  age  o'ertakes  me,  whilst  I  think 
On  my  insulting  foes. 

8  Depart,  ye  wicked ;  in  my  wrongs 

Ye  shall  no  more  rejoice  ; 
For  God,  I  find,  accepts  my  tears, 
And  listens  to  my  voice. 

9  He  hears,  and  grants  my  humble  prayer: 

And  they  that  wish  my  fall 
Shall  blush  and  rage,  to  see  that  God 
Protects  me  from  them  all. 

Psalm  7.    c.  m. 

1  "\/TY  trust  is  in  my  heavenly  Friend, 

JL V JL     My  noPe  m  tnee>  my  God : 
Rise  and  my  helpless  life  defend 
From  those  that  seek  my  blood, 

2  With  insolence  and  fury  they 

My  soul  in  pieces  tear, 
As  hungry  lions  rend  the  prey, 
When  no  deliverer's  near. 

3  If  e'er  my  pride  pro\  ok'd  them  first., 

Or  once  abus'd  my  foe, 
Then  let  them  tread  my  life  to  dust. 
And  lay  my  honor  low. 

4  If  there  be  malice  found  in  me, 

I  know  thy  piercing  eyes ; 
I  should  not  dare  appeal  to  thee, 
Nor  ask  my  God  to  rise. 

5  Arise,  my  God,  lift  up  thy  hand, 

Their  pride  and  power  control  ; 
Awake  to  judgment,  and  command 
Deliv 'ranee  for  my  soul 


8  PSALM  VIII. 

6  Let  sinners  aud  their  wicked  rage 

Be  humbled  to  the  dust ; 
Shall  not4  the  God  of  truth  engage 
To  vindicate  the  just  ? 

7  He  knows  the  heart,  he  tries  the  reins, 

He  will  defend  the  upright : 
His  sharpest  arrows  he  ordains 
Against  the  sons  of  spite. 

8  Though  leagued  in  guile  their  malice  spread.. 

A  snare  before  my  way  ; 
Their  mischiefs  on  their  impious  head. 
His  vengeance  shall  repay. 

9  That  cruel  persecuting  race 

Must  feel  his  dreadful  sword  ; 
Awake,  my  soul,  and  praise  the  grace 
And  justice  of  the  Lord. 

Psalm  8.    s.  m. 

1  /^V  LORD,  our  heavenly  king, 
V^/    Thy  name  is  all  divine  ; 

Thy  glories  round  the  earth  are  spread, 
And  o'er  the  heavens  they  shine. 

2  When  to  thy  works  on  high, 

I  raise  my  wondering  eyes, 
And  see  the  moon  complete  in  light 
Adorn  the  darksome  skies. 

3  When  I  survey  the  stars 

And  all  their  shining  forms, 
Lord,  what  is  man,  that  worthless  thing, 
Akin  to  dust  and  worms  ? 

4  Lord,  what  is  worthless  man, 

That  thou  shouldst  love  him  so  ? 
Nexr  to  thine  angels  is  he  placed, 
And  Lord  of  all  below. 


PSALM  IX. 

5  Thine  honours  crown  his  head, 

While  beasts  like  slaves  obey, 
And  birds  that  cut  the  air  with  wings, 
And  fish  that  cleave  the  sea. 

6  How  rich  thy  bounties  are  ! 

And  wondrous  are  thy  ways  ; 
Of  dust  and  worms  thy  power  can  frame 
A  monument  of  praise. 

7  From  mouths  of  feeble  babes 

And  sucklings,  thou  canst  draw 
Surprising  honours  to  thy  name, 
And  strike  the  world  with  awe. 

8  O  Lord,  our  heavenly  King, 

Thy  name  is  all  divine  ; 
Thy  glories  round  the  earth  are  spread, 
And  o'er  the  heavens  they  shine. 

Psalm  9.  l.  m. 

1  f  ■  ^O  celebrate  thy  name,  O  Lord  ! 

JL     My  heart  and  vcice,  in  one  accord 
With  grateful  joy,  I  will  declare 
To  men  thy  works,  which  w^ondrous  are. 

2  The  thought  of  them  to  me  shall  bring 
Exalted  pleasure  whilst  I  sing  : 

My  thankful  soul  shall  strive  to  raise 
To  thee,  my  God,  triumphant  praise. 

3  When  those  who  did  against  me  rise, 
Have  fled  with  shame,  struck  with  surprise, 
Terror  shall  seize  them  in  their  flight ;  ' 
They  fall  and  perish  at  thy  sight. 

4  Against  my  life  they  strove  in  vain  ; 
For  thou  didst  still  my  cause  maintain ; 
My  right  asserting  from  thy  throne, 
Where  justice  reigns,  and  truth  is  known. 


io  pSalm  ix: 

5  The  insolence  of  heathen  pride, 
O  God  of  truth,  thou  wilt  deride ; 
Their  offspring  shall  be  low  debas'd, 
Their  names  with  infamy  disgrac'd. 

PART   II. 

6  Mistaken  foes,  your  ill  design, 

Quite  vanquish'd,  now  you  must  resign  ; 
Our  city  yet  remains  secure, 

Although  you  thought  its  ruin  sure. 

7  For  God,  the  Lord,  enthron'd  on  high, 

Is  with  impartial  justice  nigh  : 
His  judgment- seat  he  hath  prepar'd, 
As  well  to  punish  as  reward. 

8  There  shall  he  sit  in  righteousness, 

And  ev'ry  secret  wrong  redress  : 
His  anger  will  his  foes  destroy, 

His  saints  shall  still  his  smiles  enjoy. 

9  God  is  a  constant  sure  defence 

Against  oppressive  insolence ; 
And  when  our  foes  exert  their  rage, 
He  will  in  our  behalf  engage. 

10  All  those  who  have  his  goodness  known. 

Will  look  for  help  to  God  alone  ; 
His  mercy  never  will  neglect 

Those  who  his  holy  name  respect. 

PART   III. 

11  Oh  join  your  hearts  in  one  accord, 

From  Sion's  hill  bless  ye  the  Lord  ; 
His  deeds  throughout  the  world  proclaim. 
Till  all  revere  his  holy  name. 

12  When  he  enquiry  makes  for  guilt, 

The  blood  of  saints  by  sinners  spilt ; 
He  calls  to  mind  the  poor  distress'd, 
And  all  their  wrongs  are  soon  redress'd. 


PSALM  IX.  11 

13  Then  pity,  Lord,  my  troubled  state, 

Dispel  the  grief  my  foes  create  ; 

Thou  who  dost  oft  my  prayer  attend, 

And  in  distress  assistance  lend. 

14  That  I  in  Zion  may  proclaim 

Thy  praise  to  all  who  love  thy  name, 
And  in  loud  shouts  of  grateful  joy, 

My  heart,  and  tongue,  and  voice  employ, 

15  Deep  in  the  pit  designed  for  me, 

The  heathen  pride  shall  humbled  be  ; 
Their  feet  insensibly  ensnar'd, 

Where  they  my  ruin  had  prepar'd. 

16  Thus  by  his  judgments,  God  is  known  ; 

All  nations  must  his  justice  own  ; 
The  wicked  he  will  low  debase, 
And  by  their  own  designs  disgrace. 

1 7  In  hell  the  sinner  shall  be  cast, 

'Mid  torments  which  must  ever  last : 
None  are  by  privacy  obscur'd, 

None  shall  by  numbers  be  secur'd. 

18  His  sufF'ring  saints,  when  most  distress'd, 

Are  by  his  timely  aid  redress'd  ; 
Though  for  awhile  in  sorrows  drown 'd, 
Their  hope  shall  with  success  be  crown'd* 

19  Arise,  O  Lord  !  to  judgment  come, 

Pronounce  the  guilty  heathen's  doom  ; 
'Let  not  thy  foes  thy  saints  devour ; 
But  crush  them  by  Almighty  power. 

20  Strike  terror  through  the  nations  round ; 

The  heathen  pride,  O  Lord !  confound ; 
And  let  them  by  consenting  fear, 
No  more  than  mortal  men  appear. 


12  PSALM  X. 

Psalm  10.    c.  m. 

1  T  X  7HY  doth  the  Lord  depart  so  far, 

V  V       And  why  conceal  his  face, 
When  great  calamities  appear, 
And  times  of  deep  distress  ? 

2  Lord,  shall  the  wicked  still  deride 

Thy  justice  and  thy  laws  ? 
Shall  they  advance  their  heads  in  pride, 
And  slight  the  righteous  cause. 

3  They  cast  thy  judgments  from  their  sight, 

And  then  insult  the  poor  ; 
They  boast  in  their  exalted  height, 
That  they  shall  fall  no  more. 

4  Arise,  O  God,  lift  up  thine  hand, 

Attend  our  humble  cry  ; 
No  enemy  shall  dare  to  stand, 
When  God  ascends  on  high. 

5  Why  do  the  men  of  malice  rage, 

And  say  with  foolish  pride, 
The  God  of  heaven  will  ne'er  engage. 
To  fight  on  Zion's  side. 
0  But  thou  for  ever  art  our  Lord  ; 
And  powerful  is  thine  hand, 
As  when  the  heathen  felt  thy  sword, 
And  perish'd  from  thy  land. 

7  Thou  wilt  prepare  our  hearts  to  pray. 

And  cause  thine  car  to  hear ; 
Accept  the  vows  thy  children  pay, 
And  free  thy  saints  from  fear. 

8  Proud  tyrants  shall  no  more  oppress, 

No  more  despise  the  just ; 
And  mighty  sinners  shall  confess, 
Thev  are  but  earth  and  dust. 


PSALM  XII.  13 

Psalm  11.  c.  m. 

1  OINCE  I  have  plac'd  my  trust  in  God, 
1^    A  refuge  always  nigh, 

Why  should  I,  like  a  tim'rous  bird, 
To  distant  mountains  fly  ? 

2  Behold,  the  wicked  bend  their  bow, 

And  ready  fix  their  dart, 
Lurking  in  ambush  to  destroy 
The  man  of  upright  heart. 

3  When  once  the  firm  assurance  fails 

Which  public  faith  imparts, 
'Tis  time  for  innocence  to  fly 
From  such  deceitful  arts. 

4  The  Lord  hath  both  a  temple  here 

And  righteous  throne  above, 
Whence  he  surveys  the  sons  of  men 
And  how  their  councils  move. 

5  If  God  the  righteous,  whom  he  loves, 

For  trial  does  correct ; 
What  must  the  sons  of  violence, 
Whom  he  abhors,  expect  ? 

6  Snares,  fire,  and  brimstone,  on  their  heads, 

Shall  in  one  tempest  shower  ; 
This  dreadful  mixture  his  revenge 
Into  their  cup  shall  pour. 

7  The  righteous  Lord  will  righteous  deeds 

With  signal  favor  grace  ; 
And  to  the  upright  man  disclose 
The  brightness  of  his  face. 

Psalm  12.  l.  m. 
1      A    LMIGHT  Y  God  appear  and  save  \ 
x\.     For  vice  and  vanity  prevail ; 

C  2 


14  PSALM  XIII. 

The  godly  perish  in  the  grave, 
The  just  depart,  the  faithful  fail. 

2  The  whole  discourse,  when  crowds  are  met, 
Is  fill'd  with  trifles  loose  and  vain  ; 

Their  lips  are  flatt'ry  and  deceit, 
And  their  proud  language  is  profane. 

3  But  lips  that  with  deceit  abound, 
Shall  not  maintain  their  triumph  long  : 
The  God  of  vengeance  will  confound 
The  flattering  and  blaspheming  tongue. 

4  Yet  shall  our  words  be  free,  they  cry, 
Our  tongues  shall  be  controuVdby  none  : 
Where  is  the  Lord,  will  ask  us  why  ? 
Or  say,  our  lips  are  not  our  own  ? 

5  The  Lord  who  sees  the  poor  opprest, 
And  hears  th'  oppressor's  haughty  strain, 
Will  rise  to  give  his  children  rest, 

Nor  shall  they  trust  his  word  in  vain. 

Q  Thy  word,  O  Lord,  though  often  try'd, 

Void  of  deceit  shall  still  appear ; 

Not  silver,  seven  times  purify 'd 

From  dross  and  mixture,  shines  so  clear. 
7  Thy  grace  shall  in  the  darkest  hour 

Defend  from  danger  and  surprise  ; 

Though  when  the  vilest  men  have  power 

On  every  side  oppressors  rise. 

Psalm  13.    p.  m. 

L   TJ  O W  long  shall  I  repine  ? 
X  JL     Lord,  must  I  ever  mourn  f 
Hast  thou  withdrawn  from  me  ? 
And  wilt  thou  ne'er  return  ? 


PSALM  XIV.  15 

2  How  long  shall  anxious  thoughts 

My  heart  with  grief  oppress  ? 
How  long  my  foes  insult, 
And  I  have  no  redress  ? 

3  Oh  !  to  my  longing  eyes 

Restore  thy  wonted  light ; 
And  soon,  or  I  shall  sleep 
In  everlasting  night. 

4  Restore  me,  lest  they  boast, 

?Twas  their  own  strength  o'ercame  ; 
Lest  those  who  vex  my  soul, 
Should  triumph  in  my  shame. 

5  Since  I  my  trust  have  plac'd 

Beneath  thy  mercy's  wing  ; 
Thy  help  will  come,  and  then 
My  heart  with  joy  shall  sing : 

0  Then  shall  my  song,  inspired,. 

To  thee,  my  God,  ascend, 
Who  to  my  soul  distress'd, 
Such  bountv  didst  extend. 

Psalm  14.    l.  m. 

1  O  URE  wicked  fools  must  need  suppose 
&3   That  God  is  nothing  but  a  name  ; 
Corrupt  and  lewd  their  practice  grows, 
No  breast  is  warm'd  with  holy  flame. 

2  The  Lord  look'd  down  from  heav'n's  high  tow'r 
And  all  the  sons  of  men  did  view, 

To  see  if  any  own'd  hispow'r  ; 
If  any  truth  or  justice  knew. 

3  But  all,  he  saw,  were  gone  aside  ; 
All  were  degen'rate  grown,  and  base ; 
None  took  religion  for  their  guide. 
Not  one  of  all  the  sinful  race, 


16  PSALM  XV. 

4  But  can  those  workers  of  deceit 
Be  all  so  dull  and  senseless  grown, 
That  they,  like  bread,  my  people  eat, 
And  God's  Almighty  power  disown  ? 

5  How  will  they  tremble  then  for  fear, 
When  his  just  wrath  shall  them  o'ertake  ? 
For,  to  the  righteous,  God  is  near, 

And  never  will  their  cause  forsake. 

6  111  men  in  vain  with  scorn  expose 
Those  methods  which  the  good  pursue  : 
Since  God  a  refuge  is  to  those 
Whom  his  just  eyes  with  favor  view. 

7  Would  he  his  saving  power  employ, 
To  break  his  people's  servile  band  ; 
Then  shouts  of  universal  joy 
Should  loudly  echo  through  the  land. 

Psalm  15.  l.  m. 

1  T  X  THO  shall  ascend  thy  heavenly  place, 

V  V    Great  God,  and  dwell  before  thy  face  ? 
The  man  that  minds  religion  now, 
And  humbly  walks  with  God  below  : 

2  Whose  hands  are  pure,  whose  heart  is  clean  ; 
Whose  lips  still  speak  the  thing  they  mean  ; 
No  slanders  dwell  upon  his  tongue  ; 

He  hates  to  do  his  neighbour  wrong. 

3  Scarce  will  he  trust  an  ill  report, 
Or  vent  it  to  his  neighbour's  hurt ; 
Sinners  of  state  he  can  despise, 
But  saints  are  honour'd  in  his  eyes. 

4  Firm  to  his  word  he  ever  stood, 
And  always  makes  his  promise  good, 
Nor  dares  to  change  the  thing  he  swears, 
Whatever  pain  or  loss  he  bears. 


PSALM  XVI.  17 

5  He  never  deals  in  bribing  gold, 

And  mourns  that  justice  should  be  sold : 
While  others  scorn  and  wrong  the  poor, 
Sweet  charity  attends  his  door. 

6  He  loves  his  enemies,  and  prays 
For  those  that  curse  him  to  his  face  ; 
And  doth  to  all  men  still  the  same 
that  he  would  hope  or  wish  from  them. 

7  Yet  when  his  holiest  works  are  done, 
His  soul  depends  on  grace  alone  : 
This  is  the  man  thy  face  shall  see, 
And  dwell  for  ever  Lord,  with  thee. 

Psalm  16.  l.  m. 

1  *|3  RE  SERVE  me  Lord,  in  time  of  need, 
Jl        Eor  succour  to  thy  throne  I  flee, 
But  have  no  merits  there  to  plead  ; 

My  goodness  cannot  reach  to  thee. 

2  Oft  have  my  heart  and  tongue  confess 
How  empty  and  how  poor  I  am  ; 
My  praise  can  never  make  thee  blest, 
Nor  add  new  glories  to  thy  name. 

3  Yet,  Lord,  thy  saints  on  earth  may  reap 
Some  profit  by  the  good  we  do ; 
These  are  the  company  I  keep, 
These  are  the  choicest  friends  I  know. 

4  Let  others  chose  the  sons  of  mirth 
To  give  a  rellish  to  their  wine ; 

I  love  the  men  of  heav'nly  birth, 
Whose  thoughts  and  language  are  divine. 

PART    II. 

5  How  fast  their  guilt  and  sorrows  rise, 
Who  haste  to  seek  some  idol  god  ! 


18  PSALM  XVI. 

I  will  not  taste  their  sacrifice, 
Their  offerings  of  forbidden  blood. 

6  My  God  provides  a  richer  cup, 
And  nobler  food  to  live  upon ; 
He  for  my  life  has  offered  up 
Jesus,  his  best  beloved  son. 

7  His  love  is  my  perpetual  feast ; 

By  day  his  councils  guide  me  right ; 
And  be  his  name  for  ever  blest, 
Who  gives  me  sweet  advice  by  nighi. 
S  I  set  him  still  before  mine  eyes ; 
At  my  right  hand  he  stands  prepar'd 
To  keep  my  soul  from  all  surprise, 
And  be  my  everlasting  guard. 

PART    III. 

9  When  God  is  nigh  my  faith  is  strong, 
His  arm  is  my  almighty  prop  : 
Be  glad  my  heart,  rejoice  my  tongue, 
My  dying  flesh  shall  rest  in  hope. 

10  Though  in  the  dust  I  lay  my  head, 
Yet,  gracious  God,  thou  wilt  not  leave  • 
My  soul  for  ever  with  the  dead, 

Nor  lose  thy  children  in  the  grave. 

11  My  flesh,  shall  thy  first  call  obey, 
Shake  off  the  dust,  and  rise  on  high  ; 
Then  shalt  thou  lead  the  wond'rous  way 
Up  to  the  throne  above  the  sky. 

12  There  streams  of  endless  pleasure  flow  ; 
And  full  discoveries  of  thy  grace 
(Which  we  but  tasted  here  below) 
Spread  heavenly  joys  through  all  the  place. 


PSALM  XVII.  19 

Psalm  17.   c.  m. 

1  r  |  ^O  my  just  plea,  and  sad  complaint, 

Attend,  O  righteous  Lord  ; 
And  to  my  prayer,  as  'tis  unfeign'd, 
A  gracious  ear  afford. 

2  As  in  thy  sight  I  am  approvd, 

So  let  my  sentence  be  ; 
And  with  impartial  eyes,  O  Lord, 
My  upright  dealing  see. 

3  For  thou  hast  searched  and  prov'd  each  part, 

And  watch'd  me  day  and  night ; 
And  thou  hast  seen  my  tongue  and  heart 
Have  aim'd  at  what  was  right. 

4  Concerning  all  the  works  of  men, 

Thou  know'st  my  heart,  O  Lord  ! 
How  true  and  faithful  I  have  been 
According  to  thy  word. 

5  Hold  up  my  goings  in  thy  path, 

Nor  let  my  footsteps  slide  : 
O  Lord,  my  God,  ev'n  unto  death. 
Be  thou  my  constant  guide. 

PART   II.      L.  M. 

3  Lord,  I  am  thine  ;  but  thou  wilt  prove 
My  faith,  my  patience,  and  my  love  ; 
When  men  of  spite  against  me  join, 
They  are  the  sword,  the  hand  is  thine, 

7  Their  hope  and  portion  lie  below  ; 
'Tis  all  the  happiness  they  know, 
'Tis  all  they  seek  ;  they  take  their  shares ; 
And  leave  the  rest  among  their  heirs. 

3  What  sinners  value,  I  resign  ; 

Lord,  'tis  enough  that  thou  art  mine  : 


20  PSALM  XVIII. 

I  shall  behold  thy  blissful  face, 
And  stand  complete  in  righteousness. 
9  This  life's  a  dream,  an  empty  show  ; 
But  the  bright  world,  to  which  I  go, 
Hath  joys  substantial  and  sincere  ; 
When  shall  I  wake  and  find  me  there? 

10  O  glorious  hour  !    O  blest  abode  ! 
I  shall  be  near  and  like  by  God  ; 
And  flesh  and  sin  no  more  controul 
The  sacred  pleasures  of  the  soul. 

11  My  flesh  shall  slumber  in  the  ground, 
Till  the  last  trumpet's  joyful  sound : 
Then  burst  the  chains  with  sweet  surprise. 
And  in  my  Saviour's  image  rise. 


Psalm  18.  l, 


M. 


1   TWTO  change  of  time  shall  ever  shock, 
Jl\      My  firm  affection  Lord,  to  thee; 
For  thou  hast  always  been  a  rock, 
A  fortress  and  defence  to  me. 

2.  Thou  my  deliv'rer  art,  O  God  ; 

My  trust  is  in  thy  mighty  pow'r : 
Thou  art  my  shield  from  foes  abroad, 
At  home  my  safeguard  and  my  tow'n 

3  To  thee  will  I  address  my  pray'r, 

(To  whom  all  praise  we  justly  owe ;) 
So  shall  I,  by  thy  watchful  care, 

Be  guarded  from  my  treach'rous  foe. 

4  By  floods  of  wicked  men  distress'd, 

With  deadly  sorrows  compass'd  round. 
With  dire  infernal  pangs  oppress'd, 
In  death's  unwieldy  fetters  bound ; 


PSALM  XVIII.  21 

5  To  heaven  I  made  my  mournful  prayer, 

To  God  address'd  my  humble  moan  ; 
Who  graciously  inclin'd  his  ear, 

And  heard  me  from  his  lofty  throne. 

PART   II. 

6  When  God  arose  my  part  to  take, 

The  conscious  earth  was  struck  with  fear  ; 
The  hills  did  at  his  presence  shake, 
Nor  could  his  dreadful  fury  bear. 

7  Thick  clouds  of  smoke  dispers'd  abroad, 

Ensigns  of  wrath  before  him  came  ; 
Devouring  fire  around  him  glow'd, 
That  coals  were  kindled  at  its  flame. 

3  He  left  the  beauteous  realms  of  light, 

Whilst  heaven  bow'd  down  its  awful  head ; 
Beneath  his  feet  substantial  night 
Was,  like  a  sable  carpet,  spread. 
9  The  chariot  of  the  king  of  kings, 

Which  active  troops  of  angels  drew, 
On  a  strong  tempest's  rapid  wings, 
With  most  amazing  swiftness  flew. 

10  Black  wat'ry  mists  and  clouds  conspir'd 

With  thickest  shades  his  face  to  veil ; 
But  at  his  brightness  soon  retir'd, 
And  fell  in  showers  of  fire  and  hail. 

1 1  Thro'  heaven's  wide  arch  a  thund'ring  peal, 

God's  angry  voice,  did  loudly  roar ; 
While  earth's  sad  face  with  heaps  of  hail 
And  flakes  of  fire  was  cover'd  o'er. 

12  His  sharpen'd  arrows  round  he  threw, 

Which  made  his  scatter'd  foes  retreat ; 
Like  darts  his  nimble  light'nings  flew, 
And  quickly  finish'd  their  defeat. 

D 


22  PSALM  XVIII. 

13  The  deep  its  secret  stores  disclos'd, 

The  world's  foundations  naked  lay  ; 
By  his  avenging  wrath  expos'd, 

Which  fiercely  rag'd  that  dreadful  day.      » 

PART  III. 

14  The  Lord  did  on  my  side  engage ; 

From  heaven,  his  throne,  my  cause  upheld, 
And  snatch'd  me  from  the  furious  rage 
Of  threatening  waves,  that  proudly  swelPd. 

15  God  his  resistless  power  employ 'd 

My  strongest  foes'  attempts  to  break  ; 

Who  else,  with  ease,  had  soon  destroy'd 

The  weak  defence  that  I  could  make. 

16  Their  subtle  rage  had  near  prevaiPd, 

When  I  distress'd  and  friendless  lay  ; 
But  still,  when  other  succours  faiPd, 
God  was  my  firm  support  and  stay. 

17  From  dangers  that  enclos'd  me  round, 

He  brought  me  forth,  and  set  me  free ; 
For  some  just  cause  his  goodness  found 
That  mov'd  him  to  delight  in  me. 

PART  IV. 

18  Thou  suit'st,  O  Lord,  thy  righteous  rule, 

To  various  paths  of  human  kind ; 
The  humble,  meek,  and  merciful, 

With  thee  shall  wondrous  mercy  find. 

1 9  Thou  to  *he  just  shalt  justice  show  ; 

The  pure  thy  purity  shall  see ; 
Such  as  perversely  choose  to  go, 

Shall  meet  with  due  returns  from  thee. 

20  That  he  the  humble  soul  will  save, 

And  crush  the  haughty 's  boasted  might, 


PSALM  XVIII.  23 

In  me  the  Lord  an  instance  gave, 

Whose  darkness  he  has  turn'd  to  light. 
On  his  firm  succour  I  rely'd, 

And  did  o'er  num'rous  foes  prevail ; 
Nor  fear'd  whilst  he  was  on  my  side, 

The  best  defended  walls  to  scale. 
For  God's  designs  shall  still  succeed  ; 

His  word  will  bear  the  utmost  test ; 
He's  a  strong  shield  to  all  that  need, 

And  on  his  sure  protection  rest. 
Who  then  deserves  to  be  ador'd, 

But  God,  on  whom  my  hopes  depend  ? 
Or  who,  except  the  mighty  Lord, 

Can  with  resistless  power  defend  ? 

PART   V. 

'Tis  God  that  girds  my  armour  on, 

And  all  my  just  designs  fulfils  ; 
Through  him  my  feet  can  swiftly  run, 

And  nimbly  climb  the  steepest  hills. 
Lessons  of  war  from  him  I  take, 

And  manly  weapons  learn  to  wield  ; 
Strong  bows  of  steel  with  ease  I  break, 

Forc'd  by  my  stronger  arms  to  yield. 
The  buckler  of  his  saving  health 

Protects  me  from  assaulting  foes ; 
His  hand  sustains  me  still ;  my  wealth 

And  greatness  from  his  bounty  flows. 
My  goings  he  enlarg'd  abroad, 

Till  then  to  narrow  paths  confin'd ; 
And  when  in  slipp'ry  ways  I  trod, 

The  method  of  my  steps  design'd. 
Through  him  I  numerous  hosts  defeat 

And  flying  squadrons  captive  take  ; 


24  PSALM  XVIII. 

Nor  from  my  fierce  pursuit  retreat, 
Till  I  a  final  conquest  make. 

29  Cover'd  with  wounds,  in  vain  they  try, 

Their  vanquish'd  heads  again  to  rear  ; 
Spight  of  their  boasted  strength,  they  lie 
Beneath  my  feet,  and  grovel  there. 

30  God,  when  fresh  armies  take  the  field, 

Recruits  my  strength,  my  courage  warms.; 
He  makes  my  strong  opposers  yield, 
Subdu'd  by  my  prevailing  arms  ; 

31  Through  him,  the  necks  of  prostrate  foes 

My  conqu'ring  feet  in  triumph  press  ; 
Aided  by  him,  I  root  out  those 
Who  hate  and  envy  my  success. 

32  With  loud  complaints  all  friends  they  try'd, 

But  none  was  able  to  defend  ; 
At  length  to  God  for  help  they  cry'd  ; 
But  God  would  no  assistance  lend. 

33  Like  flying  dust,  which  winds  pursue, 

Their  broken  troops  I  scatter'd  round  j 
Their  slaughtered  bodies  forth  I  threw, 
Like  loathsome  dirt,  that  clogs  the  ground* 

PART   VI. 

34  The  people  oft  at  strife  till  now, 

By  God's  appointment  me  obey  ; 
The  heathen  to  my  sceptre  bow, 

And  unknown  nations  own  my  sway. 

35  Remotest  realms  their  homage  send, 

When  my  successful  name  they  hear  ; 
Strangers  for  my  commands  attend, 
Charm'd  with  respect,  or  aw'd  by  fear. 

36  All  to  my  summons  tamely  yield, 

Or  soon  in  battle  are  dismay'd  : 


PSALM  XIX.  25 

For  stronger  holds  they  quit  the  field, 
And  still  in  strongest  holds  afraid. 

37  Let  the  eternal  Lord  be  prais'd, 

The  rock  on  whose  defence  I  rest ! 
O'er  highest  heavens  his  name  be  rais'd, 
Who  me  with  his  salvation  blest ! 

38  'Tis  God  that  still  supports  my  right, 

His  just  revenge  my  foes  pursues  ; 
'Tis  he  that,  with  resistless  might, 
Fierce  nations  to  my  yoke  subdues. 

39  My  universal  safeguard  he  ! 

From  whom  my  lasting  honours  flow, 
He  made  me  great,  and  set  me  free 
From  my  remorseless  bloody  foe. 

40  Therefore,  to  celebrate  his  fame, 

My  grateful  voice  to  heaven  Pll  raise  ; 
And  nations,  strangers  to  his  name, 
Shall  thus  be  taught  to  sing  his  praise. 

41  "  God  to  his  king  delivVance  sends, 

"  Shews  his  anointed  signal  grace  ; 
"  His  mercy  evermore  extends 

"  To  David,  and  his  promis'd  race." 
Psalm  19.    s.  m. 

1  TOEHOLD  the  lofty  sky 
X3    Declares  its  maker  God, 
And  all  the  starry  works  on  high 

Proclaim  his  power  abroad. 

2  The  darkness  and  the  light 

Still  keep  their  course  the  same  ; 
While  night  to  day  and  day  to  night 
Divinely  teach  his  name. 

3  In  every  diff'rent  land 

Their  general  voice  is  known  ; 

D2 


26  PSALM  XIX. 

They  shew  the  wonders  of  his  hand 
And  orders  of  his  throne. 

4  Ye  christian  lands,  rejoice, 

Here  he  reveals  his  word  ; 

We  are  not  left  to  nature's  voice 

To  bid  us  know  the  Lord. 

5  His  statutes  and  commands 

Are  set  before  our  eyes  ; 
He  puts  his  gospel  in  our  hands, 
Where  our  salvation  lies. 

6  His  laws  are  just  and  pure, 

His  truth  without  deceit, 
His  promises  for  ever  sure, 
And  his  rewards  are  great. 

7  Not  honey  to  the  taste 

Affords  so  much  delight : 
Nor  gold  that  has  the  furnace  pass'd 
So  much  allures  the  sight. 

8  While  of  thy  works  I  sing, 

Thy  glory  to  proclaim, 
Accept  the  praise,  my  God,  my  King, 
In  my  Redeemer's  name. 

PART   II. 

9  Behold  the  morning  sun 

Begins  his  glorious  way  ; 
His  beams  through  all  the  nations  run, 
And  life  and  light  convey. 

10  But  where  the  Gospel  comes 

It  spreads  diviner  light, 
It  calls  dead  sinners  from  their  tombs, 
And  gives  the  blind  their  sight. 

1 1  How  perfect  is  thy  word  ! 

And  all  thy  judgments  just, 


PSALM  XX.  27 

Forever  sure  thy  promise,  Lord, 
And  men  securely  trust. 

12  My  gracious  God,  how  plain 

Are  thy  directions  given  ! 
Oh  may  I  never  read  in  vain, 
But  find  the  path  to  heaven  ! 

13  I  heard  thy  word  with  love, 

And  I  would  fain  obey  : 
Send  thy  good  Spirit  from  above 
To  guide  me  lest  I  stray. 

14  Oh  who  can  ever  find 

The  errors  of  his  ways  ? 
Yet  with  a  bold  presumptuous  mind 
I  would  not  dare  transgress. 

15  Warn  me  of  every  sin, 

Forgive  my  secret  faults, 
And  cleanse  this  guilty  soul  of  mine, 
Whose  crimes  exceed  my  thoughts* 

16  While  with  my  heart  and  tongue 

I  spread  thy  praise  abroad ; 
Accept  the  worship  and  the  song, 
My  Saviour  and  my  God. 
Psalm  20.    l.  m. 

1  "V  T  O  W  may  the  God  of  power  and  grace 
.1^1    Attend  his  people's  humble  cry  ! 
Jehovah  hears  when  Israel  prays, 

And  brings  deliv'rance  from  on  high. 

2  The  name  of  Jacobs  God  defends, 
When  bucklers  fail  and  brazen  walls ; 
He  from  his  sanctuary  sends 
Succour  and  strength  when  Zion  calls. 

3  Well  he  remembers  all  our  sighs, 
His  love  exceeds  our  best  deserts  ; 
His  love  accepts  the  sacrifice 

Of  humble  groans  and  broken  hearts, 


28  PSALM  XXI. 

4  In  his  salvation  is  our  hope, 
And  in  the  name  of  Israel's  God, 
Our  troops  shall  lift  their  banners  up, 
Our  navies  spread  their  flags  abroad. 

5  Some  trust  in  horses  train'd  for  war, 
And  some  of  chariots  make  their  boasts  : 
Our  surest  expectations  are 

From  thee,  the  Lord  of  heavenly  hosts. 

6  O  may  the  mem'ry  of  thy  name 
Inspire  our  armies  for  the  fight ! 
Our  foes  shall  fall  and  die  with  shame, 
Or  quit  the  field  with  coward  flight. 

7  Now  save  us,  Lord,  from  slavish  fear, 
Now  let  our  hopes  be  firm  and  strong, 
Till  thy  salvation  shall  appear, 

And  joy  and  triumph  raise  the  song. 

Psalm  21.    c.  m. 

1  TN  thee,  great  God,  with  songs  of  praise, 
X     Our  favour'd  realms  rejoice  ; 

.  And,  blest  with  thy  salvation,  raise 
To  heaven  their  cheerful  voice. 

2  Thy  sure  defence,  through  nations  round, 

Hath  spread  our  rising  name, 
And  all  our  feeble  efforts  crown'd 
With  freedom  and  with  fame. 

3  In  deep  distress  our  injur'd  land 

Implor'd  thy  power  to  save ; 
For  life  we  pray'd ;  thy  bounteous  hand 
The  timely  blessing  gave. 

4  Thy  mighty  arm,  eternal  power, 

Oppos'd  their  deadly  aim, 
In  mercy  swept  them  from  our  shore, 
And  spread  their  sails  with  shame. 


PSALM  XXII.  2*9 

5  On  thee,  in  want,  in  woe  or  pain, 

Our  hearts  alone  rely ; 
Our  rights  thy  mercy  will  maintain, 
And  all  our  wants  supply. 

6  Thus,  Lord,  thy  wondrous  power  declare, 

And  still  exalt  thy  fame  ; 
While  we  glad  songs  of  praise  prepare, 
For  thine  Almighty  name. 

PART  II.     L.  m. 

7  David  rejoic'd  in  God  his  strength, 
Rais'd  to  the  throne  by  special  grace, 
But  Christ  the  Son  appears  at  length* 
Fulfils  the  triumph  and  the  praise. 

8  How  great  the  blest  Messiah's  joy 
In  the  salvation  of  thy  hand  ! 

Lord,  thou  hast  rais'd  his  kingdom  high, 
And  given  the  world  to  his  command. 

9  Thy  goodness  grants  whate'er  he  will, 
Nor  doth  the  least  request  withhold  : 
Blessings  of  love  prevent  him  still, 
And  crowns  of  glory,  not  of  gold- 

"JO  Honour  and  majesty  divine 

Around  his  sacred  temples  shine  : 
Blest  with  the  favour  of  thy  face, 
And  length  of  everlasting  days. 

11  Thine  hand  shall  find  out  all  his  foes  ; 
And  as  a  fiery  oven  glows 
With  raging  heat  and  living  coals, 
So  shall  thy  wrath  devour  their  souls, 


Psalm  22.    p, 


M, 


'M 


Y  God!  my  God !  why  leav'st  thou  me, 
When  I  in  anguish  call  on  thee  ? 


30  PSALM  XXIL 

Why  dost  thou  me  neglect, 

And  my  loud  prayer  reject  ? 
All  day,  but  all  the  day  in  vain, 
To  thee,  O  Lord,  do  I  complain  ; 

All  night  have  I  implor'd 

Thy  help  to  be  restor'd. 

2  Yet  thou,  O  Lord,  art  ever  just, 
Relieving  those,  who  in  thee  trust ; 

Therefore  shall  Israel  raise 

To  thee,  continual  praise  : 
On  thee  our  ancestors  rely'd, 
And  in  thy  strength  their  foes  defy'd ; 

To  thee  their  pray'rs  address'd, 

And  with  success  were  bless'd. 

3  Thy  sure  deliv 'ranee,  Lord,  they  found. 
When  dangers  gather'd  thickest  round  ; 

Thine  ear  t}ieir  cries  receiv'd, 

And  they  were  soon  relieve  ; 
But  I,  like  none  of  human  birth, 
Am  made  the  scoffing  rabble's  mirth  ; 

Ev'n  like  a  reptile  base, 

They  hold  me  in  disgrace. 

PART   II. 

4  My  agonies,  the  gazing  crowd, 
Survey  with  scorn  and  laughter  loud  ; 

They  mock  whilst  I  complain, 

And  thus  my  woes  disdain  : 
"  He  boasted  he  was  Heaven's  delight, 
"  Let  God  relieve  his  favourite  ; 

"  Let  him  assistance  send, 

"  His  servant  to  defend." 

5  But  thou  didst  from  my  mother's  womb, 
Make  me  a  living  offspring  come  ; 

Thy  care  thou  didst  extend, 
And  helpless  me  defend : 


PSALM  XXII.  31 

My  youth  thou  didst  from  dangers  shield, 
And  guardian-like  protection  yield  ; 

In  thee  I  will  confide, 

For  thou  art  still  my  guide. 
>  Withdraw  not  then,  O  God  !  Most  High  I 
Thy  aid  when  trouble  is  so  nigh  ; 

Do  thou  that  help  extend, 

On  which  I  still  depend. 
High  pamper'd  bulls,  a  frowning  throng, 
From  Basan^s  forest,  fierce  and  strong, 

Prepare  with  growing  rage, 

Against  me  to  engage. 

7  They  gape  on  me,  and  to  my  fears, 
Each  mouth  a  yawning  grave  appears  ; 

Wide  open  to  devour 

My  soul,  when  in  their  power  : 
The  desart  lion's  savage  roar, 
Could  not  increase  my  horrors  more, 

In  compact  close  combin'd, 

They  have  my  fall  design'd. 

PART    III. 

8  My  joints  are  rack'd,  and  out  of  frame  ; 
My  heart  like  wax  before  the  flame, 

Within  my  bosom  glows  ; 

My  blood  like  water  flows  : 
My  strength  is  parch'd  like  potter's  clay, 
My  fault'ring  tongue  forgets  to  play  ; 

My  soul  all  hope  resigns, 

And  to  the  grave  declines. 

9  Like  blood-hounds,  they  assembled  round, 
My  harmless  hands  and  feet  they  wound  ; 

And  through  my  constant  pain, 
I  languish  and  complain  ; 


32  PSALM  XXII. 

That  all  my  bones  may  well  be  told ; 
Yet  this  a  pastime  they  behold, 

And  still  their  pleasure  shew, 

At  each  increase  of  woe. 

10  As  spoil,  my  garments  they  divide  : 
By  lots  their  portions  they  decide ; 

Therefore  thy  arm  extend, 

And  kind  protection  send, 
From  their  sharp  sword  defend  thou  me, 
And  set  my  life  from  danger  free  ; 

Nor  leave  my  soul  o'erpower'd, 

By  dogs  to  be  devour'd. 

1 1  To  me,  O  God  !  assistance  send, 
My  life  from  lions  fierce  defend  ; 

As  once  thy  strength  prevailed, 

When  unicorns  assail'd. 
Then  to  my  brethren  I'll  proclaim, 
The  triumphs  of  thy  holy  name  ; 

And  to  the  saints  repair, 

Thy  glory  to  declare. 

12  "  Praise  ye  the  Lord  in  songs  divine, 
"  Ye  num'rousrace  of  Israel's  line  : 

"  To  him  with  fervour  pray, 

"  And  low  obeisance  pay  : 
"  His  people  he  hath  ne'er  disdain'd, 
"  Or  turn'd  his  face  when  they  complain'd ; 

"  But  to  their  humble  prayer, 

"Doth  lend  a  gracious  ear." 

PART    IV. 

13  Thus  in  thy  courts,  thy  name  I'll  bless* 
And  in  loud  songs  my  thanks  express  ; 

And  to  thy  saints  declare, 
Thy  providential  care. 


PSALM  XXIII,  33 

The  meek  companions  of  my  grief, 
Shall  at  my  table  find  relief; 

And  all  who  seek  thy  face, 

Shall  find  refreshing  grace. 

14  Then  shall  the  world  their  homage  pay 
To  God,  and  his  commands  obey  ; 

His  power  they  shall  confess, 

And  prayers  to  him  address. 
From  kings  submission  to  receive, 
Is  his  supreme  prerogative, 

Who  doth  the  worlds  sustain  ; 

And  over  all  things  reign. 

15  The  rich  his  bounty  must  confess, 
The  poor  their  gen'rous  patron  bless ; 

To  him  they  all  resort, 

For  succour  and  support  : 
Then  shall  a  race  exalt  his  name, 
And  to  their  heirs  his  truth  proclaim, 

'Till  heaven  and  earth  combin'd, 

Are  all  to  God  resign'd. 

Psalm  23.   l.  m. 

1  r|  ^HE  Lord  himself  doth  condescend, 

X     To  be  my  shepherd  and  my  friend ; 
I  on  his  faithfulness  rely  ; 
His  care  shall  all  my  wants  supply. 

2  In  pastures  green  he  doth  me  lead, 
And  there  in  safety  makes  me  feed ; 
Refreshing  streams  are  ever  nigh, 
My  thirsty  soul  to  satisfy. 

3  When  stray'd,  or  languid,  I  complain, 
His  grace  revives  my  soul  again  ; 
For  his  name's  sake,  in  ways  upright, 
He  makes  me  walk  with  great  delight. 

E 


34  PSALM  XXIV. 

4  Yea,  when  death's  gloomy  vale  I  tread, 
With  joy,  ev'n  there,  I'll  lift  my  head  ; 
From  fear  and  dread  he'll  keep  me  free, 
His  rod  and  staff  shall  comfort  me. 

5  Thou  spread'st  a  table,  Lord,  for  me, 
While  foes  with  spite  thy  goodness  see  ; 
Thou  dost  my  head  with  oil  anoint, 
And  a  full  cup  for  me  appoint. 

6  Goodness  and  mercy  shall  to  me, 
Through  all  my  life  extended  be  ; 
And  when  my  pilgrimage  is  o'er, 
I'll  dwell  with  thee  for  evermore. 

Psalm  24.  l.  m. 

1  r  I  ^HIS  spacious  earth  is  all  the  Lord's, 

JL     And  men  and  worms,  and  beasts  and 
He  rais'd  the  building  on  the  seas,  [birds 

And  gave  it  for  their  dwelling-place. 

2  But  there's  a  brighter  world  on  high, 
Thy  palace,  Lord,  above  the  sky  ; 
Who  shall  ascend  thy  blest  abode, 
And  dwell  so  near  his  Maker,  God  ? 

3  He  that  abhors  and  fears  to  sin, 

Whose  heart  is  pure,  whose  hands  are  clean ; 
Him  shall  the  Lord,  the  Saviour  bless, 
And  clothe  his  soul  with  righteousness. 

4  These  are  the  men,  the  pious  race, 
That  seek  the  God  of  Jacob's  face  ; 
These  shall  enjoy  the  blissful  sight 
And  dwell  in  everlasting  light. 

5  Rejoice,  ye  shining  worlds  on  high, 
Behold  the  King  of  glory  nigh  ; 
Who  can  this  King  of  glory  be  ? 
The  mighty  Lord,  the  Saviour's  he. 


PSALM  XXV.  35 

5  Ye  heavenly  gates,  your  leaves  display, 
To  make  the  Lord,  the  Saviour  way  ; 
Laden  with  spoils  from  earth  and  hell, 
The  Conqu'ror  comes  with  God  to  dwell. 

7  Rais'd  from  the  dead  in  royal  state, 
He  opens  heaven's  eternal  gate, 
To  give  his  saints  a  blest  abode, 
Near  their  Redeemer  and  their  God. 

Psalm  25.    s.  m. 

1  T  LIFT  my  soul  to  God, 
X     My  trust  is  in  his  name  : 

Let  not  my  foes  that  seek  my  blood 
Still  triumph  in  my  shamev 

2  Sin  and  the  powers  of  hell 

Persuade  me  to  despair  ; 
Lord,  make  me  know  thy  cov'nant  well, 
That  I  may  'scape  the  snare. 

3  From  gleams  of  dawning  light 

Till  ev'ning  shades  arise, 
For  thy  salvation,  Lord,  I  wait, 
With  ever-longing  eyes. 

4  Remember  all  thy  grace, 

And  lead  me  in  thy  truth  ; 
Forgive  the  sins  of  riper  days, 
And  follies  of  my  youth. 

5  The  Lord  is  just  and  kind, 

The  meek  shall  learn  his  ways, 
And  ev'ry  humble  sinner  find 
The  methods  of  his  grace. 

6  For  his  own  goodness  sake 

He  saves  my  soul  from  shame  ; 
He  pardons  (though  my  guilt  be  great) 
Through  my  Redeemer's  name. 


36  PSALM  XXV. 

PART    II. 

7  Where  shall  the  man  be  found, 

That  fears  t'  offend  his  God, 
That  loves  the  gospel's  joyful  sound> 
And  trembles  at  the  rod  ? 

8  The  Lord  shall  make  him  know 

The  secrets  of  his  heart, 
The  wonders  of  his  cov'nant  show, 
And  all  his  love  impart. 

9  The  dealings  of  his  power 

Are  truth  and  mercy  still, 
With  such  as  keep  his  cov'nant  sure., 
And  love  to  do  his  will. 

10  Their  souls  shall  dwell  at  ease 

Before  their  Maker's  face, 
Their  seed  shall  taste  the  promises 
In  their  extensive  grace* 

PART   III. 

1 1  Mine  eyes  and  my  desire 

Are  ever  to  the  Lord  ; 
I  love  to  plead  his  promis'd  grace 
And  rest  upon  his  word. 

12  Turn,  turn  thee  to  my  soul, 

Bring  thy  salvation  near  ; 
When  will  thy  hand  assist  my  feet 
To  'scape  the  deadly  snare  ? 

13  When  shall  the  sovereign  grace 

Of  my  forgiving  God, 
Restore  me  from  those  dang'rous  ways. 
My  wand'ring  feet  have  trod  ? 

14  The  tumult  of  my  thoughts 

Doth  but  enlarge  my  woe  ; 


PSALM  XXVI.  37 

My  spirit  languishes,  my  heart 
Is  desolate  and  low. 

15  With  ev'ry  morning  light 

My  sorrow  new  begins  ; 
Look  on  my  anguish  and  my  pain, 
And  pardon  all  my  sins. 

16  Behold  the  hosts  of  hell, 

How  cruel  is  their  hate  ! 
Against  my  life  they  rise,  and  join 
Their  fury  with  deceit. 

17  Oh  keep  my  soul  from  death, 

Nor  put  my  hope  to  shame, 
For  I  have  plac'd  my  only  trust 
In  my  Redeemer's  name. 

18  With  humble  faith  I  wait 

To  see  thy  face  again  ; . 
Of  Israel  it  shall  ne'er  be  said? 
He  sought  the  Lord  in  vain. 

Psalm  26.  l.  m. 

1  rUDGE  me,  O  Lord,  and  prove  my  ways, 
J     And  try  my  reins,  and  try  my  heart ; 
My  faith  upon  thy  promise  stays, 

Nor  from  thy  law  my  feet  depart. 

2  I  hate  to  walk,  I  hate  to  sit 
With  men  of  vanity  and  lies  ; 
The  scoffer  and  the  hypocrite 
Are  the  abhorrence  of  mine  eyes. 

3  Amongst  thy  saints  will  I  appear, 
Array  ?d  in  robes  of  innocence  ; 
But  when  I  stand  before  thy  bar,     • 
The  blood  of  Christ  is  my  defence, 

E  2 


38  PSALM  XXVII. 

4  I  love  thy  habitation,  Lord, 

The  temple  where  thine  honours  dwell ; 
There  shall  I  hear  thy  holy  word, 
And  there  thy  works  of  wonder  tell, 

5  Let  not  my  soul  be  join'd  at  last 
With  men  of  treachery  and  blood, 
Since  I  my  days  on  earth  have  past 
Among  the  saints  and  near  my  God. 

Psalm  27.   l.  m. 

1  T  TI  T  HOM  should  I  fear,  since  God  to  me 

V  V      Is  saving  health  and  glorious  light ; 
He  is  my  strength  against  my  foes, 
What  dangers  can  my  soul  affright  ? 

2  With  fierce  intent  my  flesh  to  tear, 

When  cruel  foes  beset  me  round, 
They  stumbled,  and  their  haughty  crests, 
With  sudden  ruin  struck  the  ground. 

3  My  humble  heart  on  God  depends, 

And  dares  with  mighty  hosts  to  cope  ; 
Since  he's  my  help,  in  doubtful  war, 
For  certain  conquest  I  will  hope. 

4  Henceforth  to  dwell  within  his  house, 

My  heart's  desire  shall  ever  be ; 
To  know  his  will  I'll  there  resort, 
The  beauty  of  the  Lord  to  see. 

5  For  there  alone  my  soul  shall  find 

Sweet  rest,  in  times  of  deep  distress, 
And  safe  as  on  a  rock,  with  joy, 
Abide  in  that  secure  recess. 

6  Whilst  God,  by  his  Almighty  power, 

My  head  o'er  all  my  foes  shall  raise, 
My  soul  thank-offerings  shall  make,^ 
And  sing  before  him  songs  of  praise. 


PSALM  XXVIII.  39 

PART   II.      C  Mr 

7  Soon  as  I  heard  my  Father  say, 

"  Ye  children  seek  my  grace" 

My  heart  reply'd  without  delay, 

"  77/  seek  my  Father* s  face." 

8  Let  not  thy  face  be  hid  from  me, 

Nor  frown  my  soul  away ; 
God  of  my  life,  I  fly  to  thee 
In  a  distressing  day. 

9  Should  friends  and  kindred  near  and  dear, 

Leave  me  to  want  or  die, 
My  God  will  make  my  life  his  care, 
And  all  my  need  supply. 

10  My  fainting  flesh  had  dy'd  with  grief, 

Had  not  my  soul  believ'd, 
To  see  thy  grace  provide  relief, 
Nor  was  my  hope  deceiv'd. 

1 1  Wait  on  the  Lord,  ye  trembling  saints, 

And  keep  your  courage  up  ; 
He'll  raise  your  spirit  when  it  faints, 
And  far  exceed  your  hope. 

Psalm  28.  l.  m. 

1   f  I  ^  O  thee,  O  Lord,  I  raise  my  cries ; 
I      My  fervent  prayer  in  mercy  hear  ; 
For  ruin  waits  my  trembling  soul, 
If  thou  refuse  a  gracious  ear. 

'2  When  suppliant  tow'rd  thy  holy  hill, 
I  lift  my  mournful  hands  to  pray, 
Afford  thy  grace,  nor  drive  me  still, 
With  impious  hypocrites  away. 

3  The  sons  of  falsehood,  that  despise 
The  works  and  wonders  of  thy  reign, 
Thy  vengeance  gives  the  due  reward, 
And  sinks  their  souls  to  endless  pain. 


40  PSALM  XXIX. 

4  But,  ever  blessed  be  the  Lord, 
Whose  mercy  hears  my  mournful  voice, 
My  heart,  that  trusted  in  his  word, 
In  his  salvation  shall  rejoice. 

5  Let  ev'ry  saint  in  sore  distress, 
By  faith  approach  his  Saviour,  God  ; 
Then  grant,  O  Lord,  thy  pard'ning  grace, 
And  feed  thy  church  with  heavenly  food. 

Psalm  29.  l.  m. 

1  "X7"  E  princes,  that  in  might  excel, 

X      Your  grateful  sacrifice  prepare  ; 
God's  glorious  actions  loudly  tell, 
His  wondrous  power  to  all  declare. 

2  To  his  great  name  fresh  altars  raise  ; 

Devoutly  due  respect  afford ; 
Him  in  his  holy  temple  praise, 

Where  he's  with  solemn  state  ador'd. 

3  'Tis  he  that  with  amazing  noise 

The  wat'ry  clouds  in  sunder  breaks  : 
The  ocean  trembles  at  his  voice, 

When  he  from  heaven  in  thunder  speaks. 

4  How  full  of  power  his  voice  appears  ! 

With  what  majestic  terror  crown'd  ! 
Which  from  the  roots  tall  cedars  tears, 
And  strews  their  scatter'd  branches  round. 

5  They,  and  the  hills  on  which  they  grow, 

Are  sometimes  hurry 'd  far  away  ; 
And  leap  like  hinds  that  bounding  go, 
Or  unicorns  in  youthful  play. 

6  When  God  in  thunder  loudly  speaks, 

And  scatter'd  flames  of  lightning  sends, 
The  forest  nod,  the  desert  quakes, 
And  stubborn  Kadesh  lQwly  bends. 


PSALM  XXX.  41 

7  He  makes  the  hinds  to  cast  their  young, 
And  lays  the  beasts'  dark  covert  bare  ; 
While  those  that  to  his  courts  belong, 
Securely  sing  his  praises  there. 
S  The  Lord  sits  sovereign  on  the  flood, 
The  thund'rer  reigns  for  ever  king ; 
But  makes  his  church  his  blest  abode, 
Where  we  his  awful  glories  sing. 

9  In  gentler  language  there  the  Lord 
The  council  of  his  grace  imparts  ; 
Amidst  the  raging  storm,  his  word 

Speaks  peace  and  courage  to  our  hearts. 

Psalm  30.   l.  m. 

1  "  % "  WILL  extol  thee,  Lord,  on  high, 
JL  At  thy  command  diseases  fly  : 
Who  but  a  God  can  speak  and  save 
From  the  dark  borders  of  the  grave  ? 

2  Sing  to  the  Lord,  ye  saints,  and  prove 
How  large  his  grace,  how  kind  his  love, 
Let  all  your  powers  rejoice,  and  trace 
The  wondrous  records  of  his  grace. 

3  His  anger  but  a  moment  stays ; 
His  love  is  life  and  length  of  days  ; 
Though  grief  and  tears  the  night  employ, 
The  morning  star  restores  the  joy. 

PART   II. 

4  Firm  was  my  health,  my  day  was  bright, 
And  I  presum'd  'twould  ne'er  be  night ; 
Fondly  I  said  within  my  heart, 

"  Pleasure  and  peace  shall  ne'er  depart" 

5  But  I  forgot  thine  arm  was  strong, 
Which  made  my  mountain  stand  so  long  ; 


42  PSALM  XXXI. 

Soon  as  thy  face  began  to  hide, 

My  health  was  gone,  my  comforts  died. 

-6  I  cried  aloud  to  thee  my  God  : 

"  What  canst  thou  profit  by  my  blood  ? 

<c  Deep  in  the  dust  can  I  declare 

"  Thy  truth,  or  sing  thy  goodness  there  ? 

7  "  Hear  me,  O  God  of  grace,  I  said, 
"  And  bring  me  from  among  the  dead;" 
Thy  word  rebuk'd  the  pains  I  felt, 
Thy  pard'ning  love  remov'd  my  guilt. 

3  My  groans,  and  tears,  and  forms  of  woe, 
Are  turn'd  to  joy  and  praises  now  ; 
I  throw  my  sackcloth  on  the  ground, 
And  ease  and  gladness  gird  me  round. 

9  My  tongue,  the  glory  of  my  frame, 
Shall  ne'er  be  silent  of  thy  name  ; 
Thy  praise  shall  sound  thro'  earth  and  heav'n, 
For  sickness  heard,  and  sins  forgiv'n. 

Psalm  31.   p.  m. 
X    TT^ROM  shame  and  insult  set  me  free, 
Jj     For  still,  O  Lord,  I  trust  in  thee  ; 
Once  more  thy  kind  assistance  lend, 
Once  more  thy  servant's  cause  defend : 
As  just  and  righteous  is  thy  name, 
So  let  me  now  thy  favour  claim. 

2  Bow  down,  O  Lord  !  thy  gracious  ear, 
Do  thou  my  steadfast  rock  appear  ; 
To  me  some  speedy  succour  send, 
My  soul  from  danger  to  defend  : 
Hear  thou  my  voice,  when  I  complain; 
And  still  my  righteous  cause  maintain. 

3  Since  thou'rt  my  rock,  and  foes  oppress, 
Oh  lead  me  out  of  this  distress  ! 


PSALM  XXXI.  43 

Thy  wonted  help,  my  God,  impart, 
For  thou  my  strength  and  fortress  art : 
To  thee  alone  I  look  for  aid, 
To  shun  the  snares  my  foes  have  laid. 
4  Thou  God  of  mercy,  love  and  truth  ! 
Who  hast  preserv'd  me,  from  my  youth  ; 
My  life*  my  soul,  and  all  that's  mine, 
To  thee  I  willingly  resign  : 
To  thee  my  soul  for  succour  flies, 
For  those  I  hate*  who  trust  in  lies. 


PART   II.     C.  M. 


5  To  thee,  O  God  of  truth  and  love, 

My  spirit  I  commit ; 
Thou  hast  redeem'd  my  soul  from  death, 
And  sav'd  me  from  the  pit. 

6  Despair  and  comfort,  hope  and  fear 

Maintain'd  a  doubtful  strife  ; 
While  sorrow,  pain,  and  sin  conspir'd 
To  take  away  my  life. 

7  "  My  time  is  in  thy  hand,  I  cry'd, 

"  Though  I  draw  near  the  dust :" 
Thou  art  the  refuge  where  I  hide, 
The  God  in  whom  I  trust. 

8  Oh  make  thy  reconciled  face 

Upon  thy  servant  shine, 
And  save  me  for  thy  mercy's  sake., 
For  I'm  entirely  thine. ' 

9  'Twas  in  my  haste,  my  spirit  said, 

"  /  must  despair  and  die, 
u  I  am  cut  off  before  thine  eyes  /" 
But  thou  hast  heard  my  cry. 


44  PSALM  XXXI. 

10  Thy  goodness  how  divinely  free  ! 

How  sweet  thy  smiling  face, 
To  those  that  fear  thy  majesty,   " 
And  trust  thy  promis'd  grace. 

11  Oh  love  the  Lord,  all  ye  his  saints, 

And  sing  his  praises  loud  ; 
He'll  bend  his  ear  to  your  complaints, 
And  recompence  the  proud. 

PART    III. 

12  My  heart  rejoices  in  thy  name, 

My  God,  my  heavenly  trust ; 
Thou  hast  preserv'd  my  face  from  shame, 
Mine  honour  from  the  dust. 

13  "  My  life  is  spent  with  grief,  I  cry'd, 

"  My  years  consum'd  in  groans, 
"  My  strength  decays,  mine  eyes  are  dry'd, 
"  And  sorrow  wastes  my  bones." 

14  Among  mine  enemies  my  name 

A  proverb  vile  was  grown, 
While  to  my  neighbours  I  became 
Forgotten  and  unknown. 

15  Slander  and  fear  on  ev'ry  side, 

Seiz'd  and  beset  me  round, 
I  to  thy  throne  of  grace  apply'd, 
And  speedy  rescue  found. 

16  How  great  deliv Vance  thou  hast  wrought 

Before  the  sons  of  men  ! 
The  lying  lips  to  silence  brought, 
And  made  their  boasting  vain  ! 

17  Thy  children  from  the  strife  of  tongues 

Shall  thy  pavilion  hide, 
Guard  them  from  infamy  and  wrongs, 
And  crush  the  sons  of  pride. 


PSALM  XXXII.  45 

IS  Within  thy  secret  presence,  Lord, 
Let  me  for  ever  dwell : 
No  fenced  city  walPd  and  barr'd 
Secures  a  saint  so  well. 

PART  IV.    S.  M. 

19  0!  all  ye  saints,  the  Lord 

With  eager  love  pursue  ; 
Who  to  the  just  will  help  afford 
And  give  the  proud  their  due.. 

20  Ye  that  on  God  rely, 

Courageously  proceed  ; 
For  he  will  still  your  hearts  supply 
With  strength  in  time  of  need. 

Psalm  32.    l.  m. 

1  T)  LEST  is  the  man,  for  ever  blest, 
Jj  Whose  guilt  is  pardon'd  by  his  God 
Whose  sins  with  sorrow  are  confess'd, 
And  cover'd  with  his  Saviour's  blood. 

2  Before  his  judgment- seat  the  Lord 
No  more  permits  his  crimes  to  rise  ; 
He  pleads  no  merit  of  reward, 
And  not  on  works  but  grace  relies. 

3  From  guile  his  heart  and  lips  are  free. 
His  humble  joy,  his  holy  fear, 

With  deep  repentance  well  agree, 
And  join  to  prove  his  faith  sincere. 

4  How  glorious  is  that  righteousness 
That  hides  and  cancels  all  his  sins  ! 
While  a  bright  evidence  of  grace 
Through  ail  his  life  appears  and  shines. 

F 


46  PSALM  XXXIII. 

PART   II. 

5  While  I  keep  silence  and  conceal 
My  heavy  guilt  within  my  heart, 
What  torments  doth  my  conscience  feel ! 
What  agonies  of  inward  smart ! 

6  I  spread  my  sins  before  the  Lord, 
And  all  my  secret  faults  confess  ; 
Thy  gospel  speaks  a  pard'ning  word, 
Thine  holy  spirit  seals  the  grace. 

7  For  this  shall  ev'ry  humble  soul 
Make  swift  addresses  to  thy  seat ; 
When  floods  of  huge  temptations  roll, 
There  shall  they  find  a  blest  retreat. 

8  How  safe  beneath  thy  wings  I  lie, 
When  days  grow  dark,  and  storms  appear ! 
And  when  I  walk,  thy  watchful  eye 
Shall  guide  me  safe  from  ev'ry  snare. 

Psalm  33.  c.  M. 

1  TJ  EJOICE,  ye  righteous,  in  the  Lord, 
lV     This  work  belongs  to  you  ; 

Sing  of  his  name,  his  ways,  his  word, 
How  holy,  just  and  true  ! 

2  His  mercy  and  his  righteousness 

Let  heaven  and  earth  proclaim  ; 
His  works  of  nature  and  of  grace 
Reveal  his  wondrous  name. 

3  His  word  with  energy  divine, 

Those  heavenly  arches  spread, 
Bade  starry  hosts  around  them  shine, 
And  light  the  heavens  pervade. 

4  He  taught  the  swelling  waves  to  flow 

To  their  appointed  deep  ; 


PSALM  XXXIII.  47 

Bade  raging  seas  their  limits  know, 
And  still  their  station  keep. 

5  Ye  tenants  of  the  spacious  earth, 

With  fear  before  him  stand  ; 
He  spake,  and  nature  took  its  birth,    > 
And  rests  on  his  command. 

6  He  scorns  the  angry  nation's  rage, 

And  breaks  their  vain  designs  ; 
His  counsel  stands  through  ev'ry  age, 
And  in  full  glory  shines. 

PART   II. 

7  Blest  is  the  nation,  where  the  Lord 

Hath  fix'd  his  gracious  throne  ; 
Where  he  reveals  his  heavenly  word, 
And  calls  their  tribes  his  own. 

8  His  eye,  with  infinite  survey, 

Does  the  whole  world  behold  ; 
He  fornvd  us  all  of  equal  clay, 
And  knows  our  feeble  mould. 

9  Kings  are  not  rescu  d  by  the  force 

Of  armies  from  the  grave  ; 
Nor  speed  nor  courage  of  an  horse 
Can  his  bold  rider  save. 

10  Vain  is  the  strength  of  beasts  or  men, 

Nor  springs  our  safety  thence  ; 
But  holy  souls  from  God  obtain 
A  strong  and  sure  defence. 

11  God  is  their  fear,  and  God  their  'rust :  . 

When  plagues  or  famine  spread, 
His  watchful  eye  secures  the  just, 
Among  ten  thousand  dead. 


43  PSALM  XXXIV. 

12  Lord,  let  our  hearts  in  thee  rejoice, 

And  bless  us  from  thy  throne  ; 
For  we  have  made  thy  word  our  choice  ; 
And  trust  thy  grace  alone. 

PART  III.     L.  M. 

13  Whatever  the  mighty  Lord  decrees, 
Shall  doubtless  stand  for  ever  sure  ; 
The  settled  purpose  of  his  heart, 
To  endless  ages  shall  endure. 

14  How  happy  then,  are  they,  to  whom 
The  Lord  supreme,  for  God  is  known ; 
Whom  he,  from  all  the  world  besides, 
Has  chosen  out  to  be  his  own  ! 

1 5  He,  all  the  nations  of  the  earth, 
From  heaven  his  lofty  throne  surveys  ; 

He  views  their  works,  &  knows  their  thoughts, 
For  by  his  power  their  hearts  were  made, 

16  The  riches  of  thy  mercy,  Lord ! 
To  us  thy  servants  still  extend  ! 
As  we,  for  all  our  various  wants, 
On  thee,  our  God,  alone  depend. 

Psalm  34.    c.  m. 

1  rp  HROUGH  all  the  changing  scenes  of  life, 

_|_       In  trouble  and  in  j  oy, 
The  praises  of  my  God  shall  still 
My  heart  and  tongue  employ. 

2  Of  his  deliv'rance  I  will  boast, 

Till  all  that  are  distrest, 
From  my  example  comfort  take, 
And  charm  their  griefs  to  rest. 

3  O  !  magnify  the  Lord  with  me. 

With  me  exalt  his  name  ; 


PSALM  XXXIV.  49 

When  in  distress  to  him  I  call'd, 
He  to  my  rescue  came. 

4  Their  drooping  hearts  were  soon  refresh'd 

Who  look'd  to  him  for  aid  : 
Desir'd  success  in  ev'ry  face 
A  cheerful  air  display'd  : 

5  "  Behold,  (said  they)  behold  the  man, 

"  Whom  Providence  reliev'd  ; 
"  So  dang'rously  with  woes  beset, 
"  So  wondrously  retriev'd  !" 

6  The  hosts  of  God  encamp  around 

The  dwellings  of  the  just ; 
Deliv 'ranee  he  affords  to  all 
Who  on  his  succour  trust. 

7  O  !  make  but  trial  of  his  love  ; 

Experience  will  decide 
How  blest  they  are,  and  only  they, 
Who  in  his  truth  confide. 

8  Fear  him,  ye  saints  ;  and  you  will  then 

Have  nothing  else  to  fear  : 
Make  you  his  service  your  delight ; 
He'll  make  your  wants  his  care. 

9  While  hungry  lions  lack  their  prey, 

The  Lord  will  food  provide 

For  such  as  put  their  trust  in  him, 

And  see  their  needs  supply'd. 

PART   II. 

10  Approach,  ye  piously  disposed, 

And  my  instruction  hear ; 
I'll  teach  you  the  true  discipline 
Of  his  religious  fear. 

11  Let  him  who  length  of  life  desires, 

And  prosp'rous  days  would  see, 


50  PSALM  XXXV. 

From  sland'ring  language  keep  his  tongue, 
His  lips  from  falsehood  free. 

12  The  crooked  paths  of  vice  decline, 

Religion's  ways  pursue ; 
Establish  peace  where  'tis  begun  ; 
And  where  'tis  lost  renew. 

13  The  Lord  from  heaven  beholds  the  just 

With  favourable  eyes  ; 
And,  when  distress'd,  his  gracious  ear 
Is  open  to  their  cries  : 

14  But  turns  his  wrathful  look  on  those 

Whom  mercy  can't  reclaim, 
To  cut  them  off,  and  from  the  earth 
Blot  out  their  hated  name. 

15  Deliv'rance  to  his  saints  he  gives, 

When  his  relief  they  crave  : 
He's  nigh  to  heal  the  broken  heart. 
And  contrite  spirit  save. 

16  The  wicked  oft,  but  still  in  vain, 

Against  the  just  conspire  ; 
For,  under  their  affliction's  weight. 
He  keeps  their  bones  entire. 

1 7  The  wicked  from  their  wicked  arts, 

Their  ruin  shall  derive  ; 
Whilst  righteous  men,  whom  they  detest, 
Shall  them  and  theirs  survive. 

18  For  God  preserves  the  souls  of  those 

Who  on  his  truth  depend  : 

To  them  and  their  posterity, 

His  blessing  shall  descend. 

Psalm  35.    cm. 

1      A    GAINST  all  those  that  strive  with  me, 
x\.     O  Lord,  assert  my  right ; 


PSALM  XXXV.  51 

With  such  as  war  unjustly  wage, 
Do  thou  my  battles  fight. 

2  Thy  buckler  take,  and  bind  thy  shield 

Upon  thy  warlike  arm  : 
Stand  up,  my  God,  in  my  defence, 
And  keep  me  safe  from  harm. 

3  Bring  forth  thy  spear,  and  stop  their  course, 

That  haste  my  blood  to  spill : 
Say  to  my  soul,  "lam  thy  health, 
"  And  will  preserve  thee  still." 

4  Let  them  with  shame  be  cover'd  o'er, 

Who  my  destruction  sought ; 
And  such  as  did  my  harm  devise 
Be  to  confusion  brought. 

5  Then  shall  they  fly,  dispers'd  like  chaff 

Before  the  driving  wind  ; 
God's  vengeful  ministers  of  wrath 
Shall  follow  close  behind. 

6  And  when,  through  dark  and  slipp'ry  ways, 

They  strive  his  rage  to  shun, 
His  vengeful  ministers  of  wrath 
Shall  goad  them  as  they  run. 

7  Since,  unprovok'd  by  any  wrong, 

They  hid  their  treach'rous  snare  ; 
And  for  my  harmless  soul  a  pit 
Did  without  cause  prepare. 

8  Surpris'd  by  mischiefs  unforeseen, 

By  their  own  arts  betray'd, 
Their  feet  shall  fall  into  the  net 
Which  they  for  me  have  laid. 

9  Whilst  my  glad  soul  shall  God's  great  name 

For  this  deliv'rance  bless  ; 
And,  by  his  saving  health  secur'd, 
Its  grateful  joy  express. 


52  PS\LM  XXXV. 

10  My  very  bones  shall  say,  "  O  Lord, 

"  Who  can  compare  with  thee  ? 
"  Who  sett'st  the  poor  and  helpless  man 
"  From  strong  oppressors  free." 

PART    II. 

11  False  witnesses,  with  forg'd  complaints, 

Against  my  truth  combin'd  ; 
And  to  my  charge  such  things  they  laid, 
As  I  had  ne'er  design'd. 

12  The  good  which  I  to  them  had  done, 

With  evil  they  repaid  ; 
And  did  by  malice  undeserv'd, 
My  harmless  life  invade. 

13  But  as  for  me,  when  they  were  sick, 

I  still  in  sackcloth  mourn'd  ; 
I  pray'd  and  fasted,  and  my  prayer 
To  my  own  breast  return'd. 

14  Had  they  my  friends  or  brethren  been, 

I  could  have  done  no  more  ; 
Nor  with  more  decent  signs  of  grief 
A  mother  's  loss  deplore. 

15  How  diff'rent  did  their  carriage  prove 

In  times  of  my  distress  ! 
When  they  in  crowds,  together  met, 
Did  savage  joy  express  ! 

16  The  rabble  too,  in  num'rous  throngs, 

By  their  example,  came  ; 
And  ceas'd  not  with  reviling  words 
To  wound  my  spotless  fame. 

17  Scoffers,  that  noble  tables  haunt, 

And  earn  their  bread  with  lies, 
Did  gnash  their  teeth,  and  sland'ring  jests, 
Maliciously  devise. 


PSALM  XXXV. 

18  But,  Lord,  how  long  wilt  thou  look  on? 

On  my  behalf  appear  ; 
And  save  my  guiltless  soul,  which  they, 
Like  rav'ning  beasts  would  tear. 

PART   III. 

19  So  I,  before  the  list'ning  world, 

Shall  grateful  thanks  express  ; 
And,  where  the  great  assembly  meets. 
Thy  name  with  praises  bless. 

20  Lord,  suffer  not  my  causeless  foes 

Who  me  unjustly  hate, 
With  open  joy,  or  secret  signs, 
To  mock  my  sad  estate. 

21  For  they,  with  hearts  averse  from  peace , 

Industriously  devise, 
Against  the  men  of  quiet  minds 
To  forge  malicious  lies. 

22  Nor  with  these  private  arts  content, 

Aloud  they  vent  their  spite  ; 
And  say,  "  At  last  we've  found  him  out, 
"  He  did  it  in  our  sight." 

•23  But  thou,  who  dost  both  them  and  me 
With  righteous  eyes  survey, 
Assert  my  innocence,  O  Lord, 
And  keep  not  far  away. 

24  Stir  up  thyself  in  my  behalf, 

To  judgment,  Lord;,  awake  : 
Thy  righteous  servant's  cause,  O  Lord , 
To  thy  decision  take. 

25  Lord,  as  my  heart  has  upright  been. 

Let  me  thy  justice  find ; 
Nor  let  my  cruel  foes  obtain 
The  triumph  they  design'd, 


54  PSALM  XXXVI. 

26  O  !  let  them  not  amongst  themselves, 

In  boasting  language  say, 
"  At  length  our  wishes  are  complete  ; 
"  At  last  he's  made  our  prey. 

27  Let  such  as  in  my  harm  rejoic'd, 

For  shame  their  faces  hide  ; 
And  foul  dishonour  wait  on  those 
That  proudly  me  defy'd  : 

28  Whilst  they  with  cheerful  voices  shout, 

Who  my  just  cause  befriend  ; 
And  bless  the  Lord,  who  loves  to  make 
Success  his  saints  attend. 

29  So  shall  my  tongue  thy  judgments  sing, 

Inspir'd  with  grateful  joy  ; 
And  cheerful  hymns  in  praise  of  thee, 
Shall  all  my  days  employ. 

Psalm  36.    s.  m. 

1  X  X  T  HEN  man  grows  bold  in  sin, 

V  V       My  heart  within  me  cries  : 
*'  He  hath  no  faith  of  God  within, 
"  Nor  fear  before  his  eyes." 

2  He  walks  awhile  conceal'd 

In  a  self-flatt'ring  dream, 
Till  his  dark  crimes,  at  once  reveal'd, 
Expose  his  hateful  name. 

3  His  heart  is  false  and  foul, 

His  words  are  smooth  and  fair  ;      ' 
Wisdom  is  banish'd  from  his  soul, 
And  leaves  no  goodness  there. 

4  He  plots  upon  his  bed 

New  mischiefs  to  fulfil ; 
He  sets  his  heart,  and  hand,  and  head 
To  practise  all  that's  ill. 


PSALM  XXXVI.  55 

5  But  there's  a  dreadful  God, 

Though  men  renounce  his  fear  ; 
His  justice,  hid  behind  the  cloud, 
Shall  one  great  day  appear. 

6  His  truth  transcends  the  sky, 

In  heaven  his  mercies  dwell : 
Deep  as  the  sea  his  judgments  lie, 
His  anger  burns  to  hell. 

7  How  excellent  his  love, 

Whence  all  our  safety  springs  ! 
Oh  never  let  my  soul  remove 
From  underneath  his  wings. 

PART   II.     L.  M. 

8  Oh  Lord,  thy  mercy,  my  sure  hope, 
The  highest  orb  of  heaven  transcends  ; 
Thy  sacred  truth's  unmeasured  scope 
Beyond  the  spreading  sky  extends. 

9  Thy  justice  like  the  hills  remains  ; 
Unfathom'd  depths  thy  judgments  are  ; 
Thy  providence  the  world  sustains ; 
The  whole  creation  is  thy  care. 

10  Since  of  thy  goodness  all  partake  ; 
With  what  assurance  should  the  just 
Thy  shelt'ring  wings  their  refuge  make, 
And  saints  to  thy  protection  trust. 

L 1  Such  guests  shall  to  thy  courts  be  led, 
To  banquet  on  thy  love's  repast ; 
And  drink,  as  from  a  fountain  head, 
Of  joys  that  shall  for  ever  last. 

12  With  thee  the  springs  of  life  remain  ; 
Thy  presence  is  eternal  day : 
O  !  let  thy  grace  thy  saints  sustain  : 
To  upright  hearts  thy  truth  display. 


56  PSALM  XXXVII. 

Psalm -37.    c.  m. 

1  X  T  T  H Y  should  I  vex  my  soul,  and  fret 

V  V       To  see  the  wicked  rise  ? 
Or  envy  sinners  waxing  great, 
By  violence  and  lies  ? 

2  As  flow'ry  grass  cut  down  at  noon, 

Before  the  ev'ning  fades, 
So  shall  their  glories  vanish  soon, 
In  everlasting  shades. 

3  Then  let  me  make  the  Lord  my  trust, 

And  practise  all  that's  good  ; 
So  shall  I  dwell  among  the  just, 
And  he  provide  me  food. 

4  I  to  my  God  my  ways  commit, 

And  cheerful  wait  his  will ; 
Thy  hand  which  guides  my  doubtful  feet, 
Shall  my  desires  fulfil. 

5  Mine  innocence  shalt  thou  display, 

And  make  thy  judgments  known, 
Fair  as  the  light  of  dawning  day, 
And  glorious  as  the  moon. 

6  The  meek  at  last  the  earth  possess. 

And  are  the  heirs  of  heaven  ; 
True  riches,  with  abundant  peace. 
To  humble  souls  are  given. 

7  Rest  in  the  Lord,  and  keep  his  way, 

Nor  let  your  anger  rise, 
Though  Providence  should  long  delay. 
To  punish  haughty  vice. 

8  Let  sinners  join  to  break  your  peace, 

And  plot,  and  rage,  and  foam  ; 

The  Lord  derides  them,  for  he  sees 

Their  day  of  vengeance  come. 


PSALiM  XXXVII.  57 

9  They  have  drawn  out  the  threat'ning  sword, 
Have  bent  the  murd'rous  bow, 
To  slay  the  men  that  fear  the  Lord 
And  bring  the  righteous  low. 

10  My  God  shall  break  their  bows,  and,  burn  ■ 

Their  persecuting  darts, 
Shall  their  own  swords  against  them  turn, 
And  pierce  their  stubborn  hearts. 
PART    II.    p.    m.      t 

11  While  sinful  crowds,  with  false  design, 
Against  the  righteous  few  combine, 

And  gnash  their  teeth,  and  threat'ning 
God  shall  their  empty  plots  deride,     [stand  ; 
And  laugh  at  their  defeated  pride  ; 

He  sees  their  ruin  near  at  hand. 

1 2  They  draw  the  sword  and  bend  the  bow, 
The  poor  and  needy  to  o'erthrow, 

And  men  of  upright  lives  to  slay  : 
But  their  strong  bows  shall  soon  be  broke  : 
Their  sharpen'd  weapons  mortal  stroke 

Thro'  their  own  hearts  shall  force  its  way. 

13  A  little,  with  God's  favor  bless'd, 
That's  by  one  righteous  man  possess'd, 

The  wealth  of  many  bad  excels  : 
For  God  supports  the  just  man's  cause  ; 
But  as  for  those  that  break  his  laws, 

Their  unsuccessful  power  he  quells. 

14  His  constant  care  the  upright  guides, 
And  over  all  their  life  presides; 

Their  portion  shall  for  ever  last  : 
They,  when  distress  o'erwhelms  the  earth, 
Shall  be  unmov'd,  and  even  in  dearth, 

The  happy  fruits  of  plenty  taste. 


58  PSALM  XXXVII. 

15  Not  so  the  wicked  men,  and  those 
Who  proudly  dare  God's  will  oppose  ; 

Destruction  is  their  hapless  share  : 
Like  fat  of  lambs,  their  hopes  and  they 
Shall  in  an  instant  melt  away, 

And  vanish  into  smoke  and  air. 

PART    III. 

16  Whilst  sinners,  brought  to  sad  decay, 
Still  borrow  on,  and  never  pay, 

The  just  have  will  and  pow'r  to  give  : 
For  such  as  God  vouchsafes  to  bless, 
Shall  peaceably  the  earth  possess, 

And  those  he  curses  shall  not  live. 

17  The  good  man's  way  is  God's  delight, 
He  orders  aH  the  steps  aright, 

Of  him  that  moves  by  his  command  : 
Though  he  sometimes  may  be  distress'd, 
Yet  shall  he  ne'er  be  quite  oppress'd, 

For  God  upholds  him  with  his  hand. 

18  From  my  first  youth  till  age  prevail'd, 
I  never  saw  the  righteous  foil'd, 

Or  want  o'ertake  his  num'rous  race ; 
Because  compassion  fill'd  his  heart, 
And  he  did  cheerfully  impart, 

God  made  his  offspring's  wealth  increase. 

19  With  caution  shun  each  wicked  deed, 
In  virtue's  ways  with  zeal  proceed, 

And  so  prolong  your  happy  days  : 
For  God,  who  judgment  loves,  does  still 
Preserve  his  saints  secure  from  ill ; 

While  soon  the  wicked  race  decays. 

20  The  upright  shall  possess  the  land ; 
His  portion  shall  for  ages  stand  ; 

His  mouth  with  wisdom  is  supply  'd, 


PSALM  XXXVII.  59 

His  tongue  by  rules  of  judgment  moves  : 
His  heart  the  law  of  God  approves ; 
Therefore  his  footsteps  never  slide. 

PART   IV.    L.    M. 

-21  In  wait,  the  watchful  sinner  lies, 
In  hopes  the  righteous  to  surprise  ; 
But  all  his  schemes  must  prove  in  vain, 
For  he  shall  not  his  purpose  gain  : 

22  God  will  not  him  defenceless  leave, 
But  when  he's  judged  will  reprieve; 
His  faults  in  mercy  he  will  see, 
And  from  destruction  set  him  free. 

23  Still  on  the  Lord  with  hope  rely, 
And  he  shall  ail  thy  wants  supply  ; 
Wait  thou  on  him,  keep  his  command 
And  be  exalted  in  the  land. 

24  A  large  possession  thou  shalt  gain, 
And  from  thy  foes  secure  remain  : 
While  wicked  men  destroyed  shall  be, 
And  thou  their  dismal  fate  shall  see. 

25  The  wicked  I  in  pow'r  have  seen, 
And  like  a  bay-tree  fresh  and  green, 
That  spreads  its  pleasant  branches  round, 
Ev'n  so  was  he  with  plenty  crown'd : 

26  But  he  was  gone  as  quick  as  thought, 
And,  tho'  I  diligently  sought, 

Yet  could  I,  by  no  sign  or  trace, 
Or  any  mark,  find  out  his  place. 

27  Observe  the  perfect  man  with  care, 
And  mark  all  such  as  upright  are  ; 
Their  roughest  days  in  peace  shall  end> 
And  happy  hours  on  them  attend  : 


60  PSALM  XXXVIII. 

28  Whilst  on  the  latter  end  of  those, 
Who  dare  God's  holy  will  oppose, 
A  common  ruin,  soon  or  late, 
Shall  surely  be  their  dismal  fate. 

29  God,  to  the  just,  will  help  afford, 
Their  only  safe -guard  is  the  Lord  ; 

^  Their  strength  in  time  of  need  is  he, 
Who  will  from  danger  set  them  free  : 
^0  Because  on  him  they  still  depend, 
The  Lord  will  timely  succour  send  : 
The  wicked  thus  shall  ne'er  prevail, 
Nor  shall  the  righteous  ever  fail. 

Psalm  38.    c.  m. 

1  A    MIDST  thy  wrath  remember  love, 
X3L    Restore  thy  servant,  Lord, 

Nor  let  a  Father's  chast'ning  prove 
Like  an  avenger's  sword. 

2  Thine  arrows  stick  within  my  heart. 

My  flesh  is  sorely  prest ; 
Between  the  sorrow  and  the  smart 
My  spirit  finds  no  rest. 

3  My  sins  a  heavy  load  appear, 

And  o'er  my  head  are  gone  ; 
Too  heavy  they  for  me  to  bear, 
Too  hard  for  me  t'  atone. 

4  My  thoughts  are  like  a  troubled  sea 

That  sinks  my  comforts  down ; 
And  I  go  mourning  all  the  day 
Beneath  my  father's  frown. 

5  Lord  I  am  weaken'd  and  dismay'd, 

None  of  my  pow'rs  are  whole  ; 
My  wounds  with  piercing  anguish  bleed. 
The  anguish  of  my  soul, 


PSALM  XXXIX.  61 

6  All  my  desires  to  thee  are  known, 

Thine  eye  counts  ev'ry  tear, 
And  ev'ry  sigh  and  ev'ry  groan 
Is  noticed  by  thine  ear. 

7  Thou  art  my  God,  my  only  hope  ; 

My  God  will  hear  my  cry, 
My  God  will  bear  my  spirits  up 
When  satan  bids  me  die. 

8  My  foes  rejoice  whene'er  I  slide, 

To  see  my  virtue  fail ; 
They  raise  their  pleasure  and  their  pride, 
Whene'er  their  wiles  prevail. 

9  But  I'll  confess  my  guilty  ways, 

And  grieve  for  all  my  sin  ; 
I'll  mourn  how  weak  the  seeds  or  grace, 
And  beg  support  divine. 

iO  My  God,  forgive  my  follies  past, 
And  be  for  ever  nigh  ; 
O  Lord  of  my  salvation  haste, 
Before  thy  servant  die. 

Psalm  39.  c.  m. 

1  npHUS  I  resolv'd  before  the  Lord, 

J_       "  Now  will  I  watch  my  tongue, 
"  Lest  I  let  slip  one  sinful  word, 
Or  do  my  neighbour  wrong." 

2  Whene'er  constraint  a  while  to  stay 

With  men  of  lives  profane, 
I'll  set  a  double  guard  that  day, 
Nor  let  my  talk  be  vain. 

3  I'll  scarce  allow  my  lips  to  speak 

The  pious  thoughts  I  feel, 
Lest  scoffers  should  th'  occasion  take 
To  mock  my  holy  zeal. 


62  PSALM  XXXIX. 

4  Yet  if  some  proper  hour  appear, 

I'll  not  be  over-aw'd, 
But  let  the  scoffing  sinners  hear 
That  we  can  speak  for  God. 

PART   II. 

5  Teach  me  the  measure  of  my  days, 

Thou  maker  of  my  frame  ; 
I  would  survey  life's  narrow  space. 
And  learn  how  frail  I  am. 

5  A  span  is  all  that  we  can  boast, 
How  short,  how  fleet  our  time  ! 
Man  is  but  vanity  and  dust, 
In  all  his  flow'r  and  prime. 

7  See  the  vain  race  of  mortals  move 

Like  shadows  o'er  the  plain  ; 
They  rage  and  strive,  desire  and  love, 
But  all  the  noise  is  vain. 

8  Some  walk  in  honor's  gaudy  show, 

Some  dig  for  golden  ore, 
They  toil  for  heirs,  they  know  not  who, 
And  strait  are  seen  no  more. 

9  What  should  I  wish  or  wait  for  then 

From  creatures,  earth  and  dust  ? 
They  make  our  expectations  vain, 
And  disappoint  our  trust. 

10  Now  I  forbid  my  carnal  hope, 

My  fond  desires  recal ; 
I  give  my  mortal  interest  up, 
And  make  my  God  my  all. 

PART   III. 

1 1  God  of  my  life  look  gently  down 

Behold  the  pains  I  feel ; 


PSALM  XL.  63 

But  I  am  dumb  before  thy  throne, 
Nor  dare  dispute  thy  will. 

12  Diseases  are  thy  servants,  Lord, 

They  come  at  thy  command ; 
I'll  not  attempt  a  murmuring  word, 
Against  thy  chast'ning  hand. 

13  Yet  I  may  plead  with  humble  cries, 

Remove  thy  sharp  rebukes  ; 
My  strength  consumes,  my  spirit  dies, 
Through  thy  repeated  strokes. 

14  Crush'd  as  a  moth  beneath  thy  hand, 

We  moulder  to  the  dust ; 
Our  feeble  powers  can  ne'er  withstand, 
And  all  our  beauty's  lost. 

15  I'm  but  a  stranger  here  below, 

As  all  my  fathers  were  ; 
May  I  be  well  prepared  to  go, 
When  I  the  summons  hear  ! 

16  But  if  my  life  be  spar'd  a  while 

Before  my  last  remove, 
Thy  praise  shall  be  my  bus'ness  still, 
And  I'll  declare  thy  love. 
Psalm  40.    c.  m. 
1   T  WAITED  patient  for  the  Lord, 
X     He  bovv'd  to  hear  my  cry  ; 
He  saw  me  resting  on  his  word, 
And  brought  salvation  nigh. 
■2  He  raised  me  from  a  horrid  pit, 
Where  mourning  long  I  lay, 
And  from  my  bonds  releas'd  my  feet, 
Deep  bonds  of  miry  clay. 
3  Firm  on  a  rock  he  made  me  stand, 
And  taught  my  cheerful  tongue 


64  PSALM  XL. 

To  praise  the  wonders  of  his  hand, 
In  a  new  thankful  song. 

4  I'll  spread  his  works  of  grace  abroad  ; 

The  saints  with  joy  shall  hear, 
And  sinners  learn  to  make  my  God 
Their  only  hope  and  fear. 

5  How  many  are  thy  thoughts  of  love  ; 

Thy  mercies,  Lord,  how  great ! 
We  have  not  words  nor  hours  enough 
Their  numbers  to  repeat. 

6  When  I'm  afflicted,  poor  and  low, 

And  light  and  peace  depart, 

My  God  beholds  my  heavy  woe, 

And  bears  me  on  his  heart. 

PART   II.     L.  M. 

7  The  wonders,  Lord,  thy  love  has  wrought, 
Exceed  our  praise,  surmount  our  thought; 
Should  I  attempt  the  long  detail, 

My  speech  would  faint,  my  numbers  fail. 

8  No  blood  of  beasts  on  altars  spilt, 

Can  cleanse  the  souls  of  men  from  guilt ; 
But  thou  hast  set  before  our  eyes, 
An  all  sufficient  sacrifice. 

9  Lo  thine  eternal  Son  appears, 

To  thy  designs  he  bows  his  ears  ; 
Assumes  a  body  well  prepar'd, 
And  well  performs  a  work  so  hard. 

10  "  Behold  I  come  (the  Saviour  cries, 
"  With  love  and  duty  in  his  eyes) 
"  I  come  to  bear  the  heavy  load 

"  Of  sins,  and  do  thy  will,  my  God. 

11  M  'Tis  written  in  thy  great  decree, 
"  'Tis  in  thv  book  foretold  of  me, 


PSALM  XL.  65 

■;  I  must  fulfil  the  saviour's  part, 
"  And  lo  !  thy  law  is  in  my  heart. 

12  "I'll  magnify  thy  holy  law, 

"  And  rebels  to  obedience  draw, 

"  When  on  my  cross  I'm  lifted  high, 

"  Or  to  my  crown  above  the  sky. 

13  "  The  spirit  shall  descend  and  show 

"  What  thou  hast  done  and  what  I  do  ; 
"  The  wond'ring  world  shall  learn  thy  grace, 
"  And  all  creation  tune  thy  praise." 

PART   III. 

i  4  My  sins  exceed  in  their  amount, 
The  hairs  on  this  afflicted  head ; 
My  vanquish'd  courage  they  surmount, 
And  fill  my  drooping  soul  with  dread. 

i  5  But,  Lord,  to  my  relief  draw  near, 
For  never  was  more  pressing  need  ; 
In  my  deliv 'ranee,  Lord,  appear, 
And  add  to  that  deliv'rance  speed. 

16  Confusion  on  their  heads  return, 
Who  to  destroy  my  soul  combine  ; 
Let  them,  defeated,  blush  and  mourn, 
Ensnar'd  in  their  own  vile  design. 

17  Their  doom  let  desolation  be, 
With  shame  their  malice  be  repaid, 
Who  mock'd  my  confidence  in  thee, 
And  sport  of  my  affliction  made. 

18  While  those  who  humbly  seek  thy  face 
To  joyful  triumps  shall  be  raised ; 
And  all  who  prize  thy  saving  grace, 
With  me  resound,  The  Lord  be  prais'd, 

19  Thus  wretched  though  I  am  and  poor, 
Of  me  the  almighty  Lord  takes  care  : 


66  PSALM  XLI. 

Thou  God,  who  only  canst  restore, 
To  my  relief  with  speed  repair. 
Psalm  41.    p.  m. 

1  TTE's  bless'd  whose  tender  care, 
XjL     Relieves  the  poor  distress'd  ; 
When  troubles  gather  round, 

The  Lord  shall  give  him  rest : 

2  His  life  with  blessings  croWn'd, 

The  Lord  shall  sure  prolong  ; 
And  check  the  will  of  those, 
Who  seek  to  do  him  wrong. 

3  If  he,  in  low  estate, 

Oppress'd  with  sickness  lie, 
The  Lord  will  comfort  send, 
And  inward  strength  supply  : 

4  Secure  of  this,  to  God, 

I  thus  my  prayer  address'd, 
"  Lord,  heal  my  wounded  soul, 
"  For  I  have  much  transgress'd  !" 

5  My  foes,  with  sland'ring  words, 

Attempt  to  wound  my  fame, 
"  When  shall  he  die,"  say  they, 
"  And  men  forget  his  name  ? 

6  Suppose  they  visits  make, 

'Tis  all  but  empty  show ; 
They  gather  mischief  then, 
And  vent  it  when  they  go, 

7  With  whispers  such  as  these, 

To  hurt  me  they  devise  : 
"  His  doom  at  length  is  come, 
"  He's  fall'n  no  more  to  rise." 

8  My  own  familiar  friend, 

On  whom  I  most  rely'd, 


PSALM  XLII.  67 

Has  me,  whose  guest  he  was, 

With  open  scorn  defy'd. 
9  But  thou,  my  wretched  state, 

In  mercy,  Lord  regard, 
And  raise  me  up,  that  they 

May  meet  their  just  reward. 

10  Thou  suff'rest  not  my  foes, 

To  triumph  in  my  fall ; 
Therefore  1  know  thine  ear, 
Is  open  when  I  call. 

1 1  My  life  thou  dost  secure, 

From  danger  and  disgrace  ; 
And  thou  shalt  set  me  still, 
Before  thy  glorious  face  : 

12  Let  therefore  Israel's  Lord, 

From  age  to  age  be  blest, 
And  all  the  peoples  joy 

With  lound  amens  exprest. 

Psalm  42.    c.  m. 

1  4    S  pants  the  hart  for  cooling  streams, 
X\.     When  heated  in  the  chase  ; 

So  longs  my  soul,  O  God,  for  thee, 
And  thy  refreshing  grace. 

2  For  thee,  my  God,  the  living  God, 

My  thirsty  soul  doth  pine  ; 
O  !  when  shall  I  behold  thy  face, 
Thou  majesty  divine  ? 

3  Tears  are  my  constant  food,  while  thus 
Insulting  foes  upbraid  ; 

u  Deluded  wretch  !   where's  now  thy  God? 
"  And  where  his  promised  aid  ?" 

4  I  sigh  whene'er  my  musing  thoughts, 
Those  happy  days  present, 


68  PSALM  XLII. 

When  I  with  troops  of  pious  friends. 
Thy  temple  did  frequent : 

5  When  I  advanced  with  songs  of  praise. 

My  solemn  vows  to  pay  ; 
And  led  the  joyful  sacred  throng, 
That  kept  the  festal  day. 

6  Why  restless,  why  cast  down,  my  soul  ? 

Trust  in  God,  and  he'll  employ 
His  aid  for  thee,  and  change  these  sighs 
To  thankful  hymns  of  joy. 

7  My  soul's  cast  down,  O  God  ;  but  thinks 

On  thee  and  Sion  still ; 
From  Jordan's  banks,  from  Hermon's  height, 
And  Nizar's  humbler  hill. 

8  One  trouble  calls  another  on  ; 

And,  bursting  o'er  my  head, 
Fall  spouting  dovtni,  till  round  my  soul 
A  roaring  sea  is  spread. 

9  But  when  thy  presence,  Lord  of  life, 

Has  once  dispelled  this  storm, 
To  thee  I'll  midnight  anthems  sing, 
And  all  my  vows  perform. 

10  God  of  my  strength,  how  long  shall  I, 

Like  one  forgotten,  mourn, 

Forlorn,  forsaken,  and  expos'd 

To  my  oppressors  scorn? 

1 1  My  heart  is  pierc'd  as  with  a  sword, 

Whilst  thus  my  foes  upbraid  ; 
"  Vain  boaster,  where  is  now  thy  God? 
"  And  where  his  promis'd  aid  ?" 

12  Why  restless,  why  cast  down,  my  soul  ? 

Hope  still,  and  thou  shalt  sing 
The  praise  of  him  who  is  thy  God, 
Thy  health's  eternal  spring. 


PSALM  XLIV.  69 

Psalm  43.  l.  m. 

1  rUST  Judge  of  heaven,  against  my  foes 
Jj    Do  thou  assert  my  injur 'd  right : 

O  !  set  me  free,  my  God,  from  those 
That  in  deceit  and  wrong  delight. 

2  Since  thou  art  still  my  only  stay, 
Why  leav'st  thou  me  in  deep  distress  ? 
Why  go  I  mourning  ail  the  day, 
Whilst  me  insulting  foes  oppress  ? 

13  Let  me  with  light  and  truth  be  blest ; 
O  let  them  point  and  lead  the  way, 
Till  on  thy  holy  hill  I  rest, 
And  in  thy  sacred  temple  pray. 

4  Then  will  I  there  fresh  altars  raise 
To  God,  who  is  my  only  joy  ; 
And  my  triumphant  songs  of  praise, 
Shall  all  my  grateful  hours  employ. 

5  Why  then  cast  down,  my  soul  ?  and  why 
So  much  oppress'd  with  anxious  care  ? 
On  God,  thy  God,   for  aid  rely  ; 

Who  can  and  will  thy  state  repair. 

Psalm  44.   c.  m. 

1  '        ORD,  we  have  heard  thy  works  of  old 
JL^     Thy  works  of  power  and  grace, 
When  to  our  ears  our  fathers  told, 

The  wonders  of  their  days. 

2  They  saw  thy  beauteous  churches  rise, 
The  spreading  gospel  run  ; 

While  light  and  glory  from  the  skies 
Through  all  their  temples  shone. 

In  God  they  boasted  all  the  day, 
And  in  a  cheerful  throng 
H 


70  PSALM  XLIV. 

Did  thousands  meet  to  praise  and  pray, 
And  grace  was  all  their  song. 

4  But  now  our  souls  are  seiz'd  with  shame, 

Confusion  fills  our  face, 
To  hear  the  enemy  blaspheme, 
And  fools  reproach  thy  grace. 

5  Yet  have  we  not  forgot  our  God, 

Nor  falsely  dealt  with  heaven, 
Nor  have  our  steps  declin'd  the  road 
Of  duty  thou  hast  given. 

6  Though  dragons  all  around  us  roar 

With  their  destructive  breath, 
And  thine  own  hand  has  bruis'd  us  sore, 
Hard  by  the  gates  of  death. 

7  We  are  expos'd  all  day  to  die, 

As  martyrs  for  thy  name  ; 
As  sheep  for  slaughter  bound  we  lie, 
And  wait  the  kindling  flame. 

8  Awake,  arise,  Almighty  Lord, 

Why  sleeps  thy  wonted  grace  ? 
Why  should  we  seem  like  men  abhor'd, 
Or  banish'd  from  thy  face  ? 

9  Wilt  thou  for  ever  cast  us  off, 

And  still  neglect  our  cries  ? 
For  ever  hide  thine  heavenly  love 
From  our  afflicted  eyes  ? 

10  Down  to  the  dust  our  soul  is  bow'd, 

And  dies  upon  the  ground  ; 
Rise  for  our  help,  rebuke  the  proud,  • 
And  all  their  powers  confound. 

1 1  Redeem  us  from  perpetual  shame, 

Our  Saviour  and  our  God  ; 
We  plead  the  honours  of  thy  name, 
The  merits  of  thy  blood. 


PSALM  XLV.  71 

Psalm  45.    l.  m. 

1  "TVT^^  ^e  my  neart  i^spir'd  to  sing 

L^l    The  glories  of  my  Saviour  king, 
Jesus  the  Lord  ;  how  heavenly  fair 
His  form !  how  bright  his  beauties  are  * 

2  O'er  all  the  sons  of  human  race 
He  shines  with  far  superior  grace, 
Love  from  his  lips  divinely  flows, 
And  blessings  all  his  state  compose. 

3  Dress  thee  in  arms  most  mighty  Lord, 
Gird  on  the  terror  of  thy  sword, 

In  majesty  and  glory  ride 

With  truth  and  meekness  at  thy  side. 

4  Thine  anger  like  a  pointed  dart, 

Shall  pierce  the  foes  of  stubborn  heart ; 
Or  words  of  mercy  kind  and  sweet 
Shall  melt  the  rebels  at  thy  feet. 

5  Thy  throne,  O  God,  for  ever  stands, 
Grace  is  the  sceptre  in  thy  hands  ; 
Thy  laws  and  works  are  just  and  right, 
But  grace  and  justice  thy  delight. 

O  God,  thy  God  has  richly  shed 
His  oil  of  gladness  on  thy  head  ; 
And  with  his  sacred  spirit  biess'd 
T1V  eternal  Sou  above  the  rest. 

PART    II. 

7  The  king  of  saints  how  fair  his  face, 

Adorn'd  with  majesty  and  grace  ! 

He  comes  with  blessings  from  above, 

And  wins  the  nations  to  his  love. 
;J  At  his  right  hand  our  eyes  bth    d 

The  queen  array'd  in  purest  gold  ; 


72  PSALM  XL VI. 

The  world  admires  her  heavenly  dress : 
Her  robes  of  joy  and  righteousness. 
9  He  forms  her  beauties  like  his  own, 
He  calls  and  seats  her  near  his  throne ; 
Fair  stranger,  let  thine  heart  forget 
The  idols  of  thy  native  state. 

10  So  shall  the  king  the  more  rejoice 
In  thee  the  fa  v 'rite  of  his  choice  ; 
Let  him  be  lov'd,  and  yet  ador'd, 
For  he's  thy  maker  and  thy  Lord. 

1 1  Oh  happy  hour,  when  thou  shalt  rise 
To  his  fair  palace  in  the  skies, 
And  all  thy  sons,  (a  nunrrous  train) 
Each  like  a  prince  in  glory  reign. 

12  Let  endless  honours  crown  his  head  ; 
Let  ev'ry  age  his  praises  spread  ; 
While  we  with  cheerful  songs  approve 
The  condescension  of  his  love. 

Psalm  46.  l.  m. 

1  fT^  OD  is  our  refuge  in  distress, 

\j  A  present  help  when  dangers  press  ; 

On  him  for  safety  we  rely'd, 

And  in  his  strength  we  will  confide  : 

2  Tho'  earth  were  from  her  centre  tost, 
And  mountains  in  the  ocean  lost ; 

Or  lofty  hills  from  their  abode, 
Torn  piece-meal  by  the  roaring  flood. 

3  Let  angry  waves  together  roll'd, 
Rage  on  with  fury  uncontroul'd  ; 
We  will  not  fear,  whilst  we  depend 
On  God,  who  is  our  constant  friend : 

At  A  gentler  stream,  that  ever  flows, 
And  joy  to  all  around  bestows, 


PSALM  XLVI.  73 

The  city  of  the  Lord  shall  fill, 
The  city  where  he's  worshi )  1  still. 

5  God  dwells  in  Sion,  whose  strong  towers, 
Shall  mock  th'  assault  of  earthly  powers, 
And  his  Almighty  aid  is  nigh, 

To  those  who  on  his  strength  rely. 

6  In  tumults,  when  the  heathen  rag'd, 
And  kingdoms  war  against  us  wag'd, 
In  thunders  loud  his  voice  was  heard* 
And  soon  their  forces  disappear^. 

PART   II. 

7  The  Lord  of  hosts  conducts  our  arms, 
Our  tower  of  refuge  in  alarms  ; 

Our  father's  guardian  he  hath  been, 
And  we  his  tender  love  have  seen. 

8  Come  see  what  power  he  hath  display'd, 
His  people  ne'er  shall  be  dismay 'd  : 

For  them  he  hath  these  wonders  wrought, 
And  on  the  earth  destruction  brought. 

9  Abroad  he  hath  his  vengeance  hurPd, 
And  aw'd  to  peace  the  jarring  world ; 
He  doth  destroy  the  spear  and  bow, 
And  into  flames  their  chariots  throw  : 

10  With  rev'rence  be  the  Lord  address'd  ; 
The  earth  her  sovereign  hath  confess 'd  ; 
The  heathen  shall  his  power  obey, 
And  yield  to  his  Almighty  sway. 

11  The  God  of  hosts,  conducts  our  arms, 
Our  tower  of  refuge  in  alarms  ; 
Our  father's  guardian  he  hath  been, 
And  we  his  wond'rous  love  have  seen. 

H  2 


74  PSALM  XLVIII. 

Psalm  47.    c.  m. 

1  /^\H  for  a  shout  of  sacred  joy 
V_y     To  God  the  sovereign  king  ! 
Let  ev'ry  land  their  tongues  employ, 

And  hymns  of  triumph  sing. 

2  Jesus  our  God  ascends  on  high  ; 

His  heavenly  guards  around 
Attend  him  rising  through  the  sky, 
With  trumpet's  joyful  sound. 

3  While  angels  shout  and  praise  their  king. 

Let  mortals  learn  their  strains  ; 
Let  all  the  earth  his  honours  sing  ; 
O'er  all  the  earth  he  reigns. 

4  Rehearse  his  praise  with  awe  profound, 

Let  knowledge  guide  the  song  ; 
Nor  mock  him  with  a  solemn  sound 
Upon  a  thoughtless  tongue. 

5  In  Israel  stood  his  ancient  throne, 

He  lov'd  that  chosen  race  ; 
But  now  he  calls  the  world  his  own, 
And  heathens  taste  his  grace. 

6  The.  Gentile  nations  are  the  Lord's, 

There  Abrahams  God  is  known  : 
While  powers  and  princes,  shields  and  swords 
Submit  before  his  throne. 

Psalm  48.    s.  m. 

1  S^i  REAT  is  the  Lord  our  God, 
\JT  And  let  his  praise  be  great ; 
He  makes  his  churches  his  abode, 

His  most  delightful  seat. 

2  These  temples  of  his  grace, 

How  beautiful  they  stand  ! 


PSALM  XLVIII.  75 

The  honours  of  our  native  place, 
And  bulwarks  of  our  land. 

3  In  Sion  God  is  known 

A  refuge  in  distress  ; 
How  bright  has  his  salvation  shone, 
How  fair  his  heavenly  grace  ! 

4  When  kings  against  her  join'd, 

And  saw  the  Lord  was  there, 
In  wild  confusion  of  the  mind 
They  fled  with  hasty  fear. 

5  When  navies  tall  and  proud 

Attempt  to  spoil  our  peace, 
He  sends  his  tempest  roaring  loud, 
And  sinks  them  in  the  seas. 

€  Oft  have  our  fathers  told, 
Our  eyes  have  often  seen, 
How  well  our  God  secures  the  fold 
Where  his  own  flocks  have  been. 

7  In  ev'ry  new  distress 

We'll  to  his  house  repair, 
Recal  to  mind  his  wondrous  grace, 
And  seek  deliv 'ranee  there. 

PART   II. 

8  Far  as  thy  name  is  known 

The  world  declares  thy  praise  ; 
Thy  saints,  O  Lord,  before  thy  throne 
Their  songs  of  honour  raise. 

9  With  joy  the  people  stand 

On  Sions  chosen  hill, 
Proclaim  the  wonders  of  thy  hand, 
And  counsels  of  thy  will. 

10  Let  strangers  walk  around 

The  city  where  we  dwell, 


76  PSALM  YLIX. 

Compass  and  view  thy  holy  ground, 
And  mark  the  building  well. 

11  The  orders  of  thy  house, 

The  worship  of  thy  court, 
The  cheerful  songs,  the  solemn  vows, 
And  make  a  fair  report. 

12  How  decent  and  how  wise  ! 

How  gloriou  >  to  behold  ! 
Beyond  the  pomp  that  charms  the  eyes, 
And  rites  adorn'd  with  gold. 

13  The  God  we  worship  now 

Will  guide  us  till  we  die ; 
Will  be  our  God  while  here  below, 
And  ours  above  the  sky. 

Psalm  49.    c.  m. 
HY  doth  the  man  of  riches  grow 
To  insolence  and  pride, 
To  see  his  wealth  and  honours  flow 
With  ev'ry  rising  tid  •  ? 

Why  doth  he  treat  the  poor  with  scorn, 

Made  of  the  self- same  clay, 
And  boast  as  though  his  flesh  was  born 

Of  better  dust  than  they  ? 
Not  all  his  treasures  can  procure 

His  soul  a  short  reprieve, 
Redeem  from  death  one  guilty  hour, 

Or  make  his  brother  live. 

Eternal  life  can  ne'er  be  sold, 

The  ransom  is  too  high  ; 
Justice  will  ne'er  be  brib'd  with  gold, 

That  man  may  never  die. 

He  sees  the  brutish  and  the  wise, 
The  tim'rous  and  the  brave, 


•w 


PSALM  XLIX.  77 

Quit  their  possessions,  close  their  eyes, 

And  hasten  to  the  grave. 
*  Yet  'tis  his  inward  thought  and  pride, 

"  My  house  shall  ever  stand  ; 
"  And  that  my  name  may  long  abide 

"  I'll  give  it  to  my  land." 

7  Vain  are  his  thoughts,  his  hopes  are  lost, 
How  soon  his  mem'ry  dies  ! 

His  name  is  buried  in  the  dust, 
Where  his  own  body  lies. 

8  This  is  the  folly  of  their  way,    . 
And  yet  their  sons,  as  vain, 

Approve  the  words  their  fathers  say, 
And  act  their  works  again. 

9  Men  void  of  wisdom  and  of  grace, 
Though  honour  raise  them  high, 

Live  like  the  beasts,  a  thoughtless  race, 
And  like  the  beasts  they  die. 

10  Laid  in  the  grave  like  silly  sheep, 
Death  triumphs  o'er  them  there, 

Till  the  last  trumpet  breaks  their  sleep, 
And  wakes  them  in  despair. 

PART   II. 

11  Ye  sons  of  pride,  that  hate  the  just, 
And  trample  on  the  poor, 

When  death  has  brought  you  down  to  dust 
Your  pomp  shall  rise  no  more. 

12  The  last  great  day  shall  change  the  scene ; 
When  will  that  hour  appear  ? 

When  shall  the  just  revive,  and  reign 
O'er  all  that  scorn'd  them  here  ? 

13  God  will  my  naked  soul  receive, 
CalFd  from  the  world  away, 


78  PSALM  L. 

And  break  the  prison  of  the  gravq, 
To  raise  my  mould'ring  clay. 
14  Heaven  is  my  everlasting  home, 
Th'  inheritance  is  sure ; 

Let  men  of  pride  their  rage  resume, 
But  I'll  repine  no  more. 

Psalm  50.   c.  m. 

1  f  I  ^HE  Lord,  the  judge,  before  his  throne, 

J[       Bids  the  whole  earth  draw  nigh, 
The  nations  near  the  rising  sun, 
And  near  the  Western  sky. 

2  No  more  shall  bold  blasphemers  say, 

Judgment  xvill  ne'er  begin  ; 
No  more  abuse  his  long  delay 
To  impudence  and  sin. 

3  Thron'd  on  a  cloud  our  God  shall  come, 

Bright  flames  prepare  his  way, 
Thunder  and  darkness,  fire  and  storm, 
Lead  on  the  dreadful  day. 

4,  Heaven  from  above  his  call  shall  hear, 
Attending  angels  come, 
And  earth  and  hell  shall  know  and  fear 
His  justice  and  their  doom. 

5  "But  gather  all  my  saints  (he  cries) 

"  That  made  their  peace  with  God, 
"  By  the  Redeemer's  sacrifice, 
"  And  seal'd  it  with  his  blood. 

6  "  Their  faith  and  works,  brought  forth  to  light, 

"  Shall  make  the  world  confess, 
"  My  sentence  of  reward  is  right, 
"  And  heaven  adore  my  grace. 


PSALM  L.  79 

PART   II. 

7  Thus  saith  the  Lord,  "  the  spacious  fields 

"  And  flocks  and  herds  are  mine, 
"  O'er  all  the  cattle  of  the  hills 
"  1  claim  a  right  divine. 

8  "  I  ask  no  sheep  for  sacrifice, 

"  Nor  bullocks  burnt  with  fire  ; 
"  To  hope  and  love,  to  pray  and  praise, 
"  Is  all  that  1  require. 

9  "  Invoke  my  name  when  trouble's  near, 

"  My  hand  shall  set  thee  free  ; 
"  Then  shall  my  thankful  lips  declare 
"  The  honour  due  to  me. 

10  "  The  man  that  offers  humble  praise, 

"  Declares  my  glory  best, 
"And  those  that  tread  my  holy  ways, 
"  Shall  my  salvation  taste. 

11  "  Not  for  the  want  of  bullocks  slain 

"  Will  I  the  world  reprove  ; 
"  Altars  and  rites,  and  forms  are  vain, 
"  Without  the  fire  of  love. 

12  "  And  what  have  hypocrites  to  do 

"  To  bring  their  sacrifice  ? 
"  They  call  my  statutes  just  and  true, 
"  But  deal  in  theft  and  lies. 

13  "  Could  you  expect  to  'scape  my  sight, 

"  And  sin  without  controul  ? 
"  But  I  shall  bring  your  crimes  to  light, 
"  With  anguish  in  your  soul." 

14  Consider,  ye,  that  slight  the  Lord, 
Before  his  wrath  appear ; 

If  once  you  fall  beneath  his  sword, 
There's  no  deliv'rer  there. 


80  PSALM  LI. 

PART   III. 

15  The  Lord,  the  judge,  his  churches  warns, 
Let  hypocrites  attend  and  fear, 

Who  place  their  hopes  in  rites  and  forms, 
But  make  not  faith  nor  love  their  care. 

16  Vile  wretches  dare  rehearse  his  name 
With  lips  of  falshood  and  deceit ; 

A  friend  or  brother  they  defame, 
And  soothe  and  flatter  those  they  hate. 

17  They  watch  to  do  their  neighbours  wrong, 
Yet  dare  to  seek  their  Maker's  face ; 
They  take  his  cov'nant  on  their  tongue, 
But  break  his  laws,  abuse  his  grace. 

18  To  heaven  they  lift  their  hands  unclean, 
DefiTd  with  lust,  defil'd  with  blood  ; 
By  night  they  practice  every  sin, 

By  day  their  mouths  draw  near  to  God. 

19  And  while  his  judgments  long  delay, 
They  grow  secure  and  sin  the  more  : 
They  think  he  sleeps  as  well  as  they, 
And  put  far  off  the  dreadful  hour. 

20  Oh  dreadful  hour !  when  God  draws  near, 
And  sets  their  crimes  before  their  eyes! 
His  wrath  their  guilty  souls  shall  tear, 
And  no  deliv'rer  dare  to  rise. 

Psalm  51.  l.  m. 

1  O  HEW  pity,  Lord,  O  Lord,  forgive, 
^  Let  a  repenting  rebel  live  ; 

Are  not  thy  mercies  large  and  free  ? 
May  not  a  sinner  trust  in  thee  ? 

2  My  crimes  are  great,  but  can't  surpass 
The  power  and  glory  of  thy  grace  ; 


PSALM  LI.  81 

Great  God  thy  nature  hath  no  bound, 
So  let  thy  pard'ning  love  be  found. 

3  Oh  wash  my  soul  from  ev'ry  sin, 

And  make  my  guilty  conscience  clean  ; 
Here  on  my  heart  the  burden  lies, 
And  past  offences  pain  mine  eyes. 

4  My  lips  with  shame  my  sins  confess 
Against  thy  law,  against  thy  grace  ; 
Lord,  should  thy  judgment  grow  severe, 
I  am  condemn'd  but  thou  art  clear. 

5  Should  sudden  vengeance  seize  my  breath, 
I  must  pronounce  thee  just  in  death  : 
And  if  my  soul  were  sent  to  hell, 

Thy  righteous  law  approves  it  well. 

6  Yet  save  a  trembling  sinner,  Lord, 
Whose  hope,  still  hov'ring  round  thy  wor4, 
Would  light  on  some  sweet  promise  there, 
•Some  sure  support  against  despair. 

PART   II. 

7  Lord,  I  am  vile,  conceiv'd  in  sin, 
And  born  unholy  and  unclean ; 
Sprung  from  the  man  whose  guilty  fall 
Corrupts  the  race,  and  taints  us  all. 

8  Soon  as  we  draw  our  infant  breath, 
The  seeds  of  sin  grow  up  for  death  ; 
The  law  demands  a  perfect  heart ; 
But  we're  defil'd  in  ev'ry  part. 

9  Great  God  create  my  heart  anew, 
And  form  my  spirit  pure  and  true  ; 
Oh  make  me  wise  betimes  to  spy 
My  danger  and  my  remedy. 


82  PSALM  LI. 

10  Behold  I  fall  before  thy  face  ; 
My  only  refuge  is  thy  grace  : 

No  outward  forms  can  make  me  clean  ; 
The  leprosy  lies  deep  within. 

1 1  No  bleeding  bird,  nor  bleeding  beast, 
Nor  hysop-branch,  nor  sprinkling  priesh. 
Nor  running  brook,  nor  flood,  nor  sea, 
Can  wash  the  dismal  stain  away. 

12  Jesus,  my  God,  thy  blood  alone 
Hath  pow'r  sufficient  to  atone  : 

Thy  blood  can  make  me  white  as  snow ; 
No  Jewish  types  could  cleanse  me  so. 

1 3  While  guilt  disturbs  and  breaks  my  peace, 
>Tor  flesh  nor  soul  hath  rest  or  ease  ; 
Lord,  let  me  hear  thy  pard'ning  voice  ; 
And  make  my  broken  heart  rejoice. 


PART    III. 


14  O  thou  that  hear'st  when  sinners  cry, 
Though  all  my  crimes  before  thee  lie* 
Behold  them  not  with  angry  look, 
But  blot  their  mem'ry  from  thy  book. 

15  Create  my  nature  pure  within, 
And  form  my  soul  averse  to  sin  ;  . 
Let  thy  good  spirit  ne'er  depart, 
Nor  hide  thy  presence  from  my  heart. 

16  I  cannot  live  without  thy  light, 

Cast  out  and  banish' d  from  thy  sight ; 
Thine  holy  joys,  my  God,  restore, 
And  guard  me,  that  I  fall  no  more. 

17  Though  I  have  griev'dthy  spirit,  Lord, 
Thy  help  and  comfort  still  afford, 

And  let  a  wretch  come  near  thy  throne, 
To  plead  the  mc  rits  of  thy  Son. 


PSALM  LII.  83 

18  A  broken  heart,  my  God,  my  king,. 
Is  all  the  sacrifice  I  bring  ; 

The  God  of  grace  will  ne'er  despise 
A  broken  heart  for  sacrifice. 

19  My  soul  lies  humbled  in  the  dust, 
And  owns  thy  dreadful  sentence  just.; 
Look  down,  O  Lord,  with  pitying  eye^ 
And  save  the  soul  condemn'd  to  die. 

20  Then  will  I  teach  the  world  thy  ways  ; 
Sinners  shall  learn  thy  sovereign  grace  ; 
I'll  lead  them  to  my  Saviour's  blood, 
And  they  shall  praise  a  pard'ning  God. 

21  O  may  thy  love  inspire  my  tongue  ! 
Salvation  shall  be  all  my  song  ; 
And  all  my  pow'rs  shall  join  to  bless 
The  Lord  my  strength  and  righteousness. 

Psalm  52.    l.  m. 

1  T  T  T  H Y  should  the  haughty  hero  boast 

V  V      His  vengeful  arm,  his  warlike  host? 
"\Ynue  blood  defiles  his  cruel  hand, 
And  desolation  wastes  the  land. 

2  He  joys  to  hear  the  captive's  cry, 
The  widow's  groan,  the  orphan's  sigh  ; 
And  when  the  weary  sword  would  spare, 
His  falshood  spreads  the  fatal  snare. 

3  He  triumphs  in  the  deeds  of  wrong, 
And  arms  with  rage  his  impious  tongue  ; 
With  pride  proclaims  his  dreadful  pow'r, 
And  bids  the  trembling  world  adore. 

i  But  God  beholds,  and  with  a  frown, 
Casts  to  the  dust  his  honours  down  ; 
The  righteous  freed,  their  hopes  recal. 
And  hail  the  proud  oppressor's  fail* 


84  PSALM  LIII. 

5  How  low  th'  insulting  tyrant  lies, 
Who  dar'd  th'  eternal  power  despise  ; 
And  vainly  deem'd  with  envious  joy, 
His  arm  almighty  to  destroy. 

6  We  praise  the  Lord,  who  heard  our  cric.^ 
And  sent  salvation  from  the  skies  ; 

The  saints  who  saw  our  mournful  days. 
Shall  join  our  grateful  songs  of  praise. 

PART  II.     c.  M. 

7  While  unbelievers  make  their  boast, 

And  heavenly  grace  despise  ; 
In  their  own  arm  they  put  their  trust, 
And  fill  their  mouths  with  lies  ; 

8  But  like  a  cultur'd  olive  grove 

Dress'd  in  immortal  green, 
Thy  children  blooming  in  thy  love. 
Amidst  thy  courts  are  seen. 

9  On  thine  eternal  grace,  O  Lord, 

Our  souls  shall  rest  secure  ; 
And  all  who  trust  thy  holy  word. 
Shall  find  salvation  sure. 

Psalm  53.   c.  m. 

1  rpHE  wicked  fools  must  sure  suppose, 

I        That  God  is  but  a  name  : 
This  gross  mistake  their  practice  shows, 
Since  virtue  all  disclaim. 

2  The  Lord  look'd  down  from  heaven's  high 

The  sons  of  men  to  view,  [tow'r, 

To  see  if  any  own'd  his  power, 
Or  truth  or  justice  knew. 

3  But  all  he  saw  were  backward  gone 

Degen'rate  grown  and  base ; 


PSALM  LIV.  85 

None  for  religion  car'd,  not  one 
Of  all  the  sinful  race. 

4  But  are  those  workers  of  deceit 

So  dull  and  senseless  grown, 
That  they,  like  bread,  my  people  eat, 
And  God's  just  power  disown  ? 

5  Their  causeless  fears  shall  strangely  grow  ; 

And  they,  despis'd  of  God, 
Shall  soon  "be  foil'd  :  his  hands  shall  throw 
Their  shatter'd  bones  abroad. 

6  Would  he  his  saving  power  employ 

To  break  our  servile  band, 
Loud  shouts  of  universal  joy 
Should  echo  through  the  land. 

Psalm  54.   c.  m. 

1  TJ  EHOLD  us,  Lord,  and  let  our  en 

Jj    Before  thy  throne  ascend, 
Cast  thou  on  us  a  pitying  eye, 
And  still  our  lives  defend. 

2  For  slaughtering  foes  insult  us  round, 

Oppressive,  proud  and  vain, 
They  cast  thy  temples  to  the  ground, 
And  all  our  rites  profane. 

3  Yet  thy  forgiving  grace  we  trust, 

And  in  thy  power  rejoice  ; 
Thine.arm  shall  crush  our  foes  to  dustT 
Thy  praise  inspire  our  voice. 

4  Be  thou  with  those  whose  friendly  hand 

Upheld  us  in  distress, 
Extend  thy  truth  through  ev'ry  land. 
And  still  thy  people  bless, 

12 


*3  PSALM  LV. 

Psalm  55.  c.  m. 

1  /~\  GOD,  my  refuge,  hear  my  crie  ' 
V_^     Behold  my  flowing  tears, 

For  earth  and  hell  my  hurt  devise, 
And  triumph  in  my  fears. 

2  Their  rage  is  levell'd  at  my  life, 

My  soul  with  guilt  they  load, 
And  fill  my  thoughts  with  inward  strife, 
To  shake  my  hope  in  God. 

3  What  inward  pains  my  heart-strings  wound, 

I  groan  with  ev'ry  breath  ; 
Horror  and  fear  beset  me  round 
Amongst  the  shades  of  death. 

4  Oh  were  I  like  a  feather'd  dove, 

And  innocence  had  wings  ; 
I'd  fly,  and  make  a  long  remove 
From  all  these  restless  things. 

5  Let  me  to  some  wild  desart  go, 

And  find  a  peaceful  home, 
Where  storms  of  malice  never  blow 
Temptations  never  come. 

6  Vain  hopes  and  vain  inventions  all 

To  'scape  the  rage  of  hell ! 
The  mighty  God  on  whom  I  call, 
Can  save  me  here  as  well. 

7  By  morning  light  Pll  seek  his  face, 

At  noon  repeat  my  cry, 
The  night  shall  hear  me  ask  his  grace , 
Nor  will  he  long  deny. 

8  God  shall  preserve  my  soul  from  fear. 

Or  shield  me  when  afraid ; 
Ten  thousand  angels  must  appear 
Tf  he  command  their  aid. 


PSALM  LV.  87 

9  I  cast  my  burdens  on  the  Lord, 
The  Lord  sustains  them  all ; 
My  courage  rests  upon  his  word, 
That  saints  shall  never  fall. 

10  My  highest  hopes  cannot  be  vain, 

My  lips  shall  spread  his  praise  ; 
While  cruel  and  deceitful  men, 
Scarce  live  out  half  their  days. 

PART    II. 

1 1  Let  sinners  take  their  course, 

And  choose  the  road  to  death ; 
But  in  the  worship  of  my  God 
I'll  spend  my  daily  breath. 

12  My  thoughts  address  his  throne, 

When  morning  brings  the  light .; 
I  seek  his  blessing  ev'ry  noon, 
And  pay  my  vows  at  night. 

13  Thou  wilt  regard  my  cries, 

O  my  eternal  God, 
While  sinners  perish  in  surprise 
Beneath  thine  angry  rod. 

14  Because  they  dwell  at  ease, 

And  no  sad  changes  feel, 
They  neither  fear  nor  trust  thy  name, 
Nor  learn  to  do  thy  will 

15  But  I  with  all  my  cares, 

Will  lean  upon  the  Lord  ; 
I'll  cast  my  burdens  on  his  arm, 
And  rest  upon  his  word- 

16  His  arm  shall  well  sustain 

The  children  of  his  love  ; 
The  ground  on  which  their  safety  stands*. 
No  earthly  power  can  move* 


8B  PSALM  LVI. 

Psalm  56.    c.  m. 

1  /^\  THOU  whose  justice  reigns  on  high, 
V^/     And  makes  th'  oppressor  cease  ; 
Behold  how  envious  sinners  cry 

To  vex  and  break  my  peace. 

2  The  sons  of  violence  and  lies 

Join  to  devour  me,  Lord ; 
But  as  my  hourly  dangers  rise, 
My  refuge  is  thy  word. 

3  In  God  most  holy,  just,  and  true. 

I  have  repos'd  my  trust ; 
Nor  will  1  fear  what  flesh  can  do, 
The  offspring  of  the  dust. 

4  They  wrest  my  words  to  mischief  still, 

Charge  me  with  unknown  faults  ; 
For  mischiefs  all  their  counsels  fill, 
And  malice  all  their  thoughts. 

5  Shall  they  escape  without  thy  frown  ? 

Must  their  devices  stand  ? 
Oh  cast  the  haughty  sinner  down, 
And  let  him  know  thy  hand  ! 

6  God  sees  the  sorrows  of  his  saints, 

Their  groans  affect  his  ears  ; 
Thy  mercy  counts  my  just  complaints* 
And  numbers  all  my  tears. 

7  When  to  thy  throne  I  raise  my  cry 

The  wicked  fear  and  flee  : 
So  swift  is  prayer  to  reach  the  sky, 
So  near  is  God  to  me. 

8  In  thee,  most  holy,  just,  and  true, 

I  have  repos'd  my  trust ; 
Nor  will  I  fear  what  man  can  do,. 
The  offspring  of  the  dust* 


PSALM  LVII.  89 

9  Thy  solemn  vows  are  on  me,  Lord, 
Thou  shalt  receive  my  praise  ; 
I'll  sing,  how  faithful  is  thy word  ! 
How  righteous  all  thy  ways  ! 
10  Thou  hast  secur'd  my  soul  from  death, 
Oh  set  thy  pris'ner  free, 
That  heart  and  hand,  and  life  and  breath 
May  be  employ'd  for  thee, 

Psalm  57.    l.  m: 

THY  mercy,  Lord,  to  me  extend : 
On  thy  protection  I  depend  ;  * 
And  to  thy  wings  for  shelter  haste, 
Till  this  outrageous  storm  is  past. 

2  To  thy  tribunal,  Lord,  I  fly, 

Thou  sovereign  judge,  and  God  most  high, 
Who  wonders  hast  for  me  begun, 
And  wilt  not  leave  thy  work  undone. 

3  From  heaven  protect  me  by  thine  arm. 
And  shame  all  those  who  seek  my  harm  y 
To  my  relief  thy  mercy  send, 

And  truth  on  which  my  hopes  depend. 

4  For  I  with  savage  men  converse, 
Like  hungry  lions  wild  and  fierce  ; 

With  men  whose  teeth  are  spears,  their  words 
Invenom'd  darts,  and  two-edg'd  swords. 

5  Be  thou,  O  God,  exalted  high  ; 
And  as  thy  glory  fills  the  sky, 
So  let  it  be  on  earth  display'd, 
Till  thou  art  here,  as  there,  obey'd, 

PART   II. 

6  My  God  in  whom  are  all  the  springs 
Of  boundless  love  and  grace  unknown, 


90  PSALM  LVIII. 

Hide  me  beneath  thy  spreading  wings,, 
Till  the  dark  cloud  is  overblown. 

7  Up  to  the  heavens  I  se,nd  my  cry, 
The  Lord  will  my  desires  perform  ; 
He  sends  his  angels  from  the  sky, 

And  saves  me  from  the  threatening  storm. 

8  Be  thou  exalted,  O  my  God, 

Above  the  heavens  where  angels  dwell ; 
Thy  power  on  earth  be  known  abroad, 
And  land  to  land  thy  wonders  tell. 

9  My  heart  is  fix'd  ;  my  song  shall  raise 
Immortal  honours  to  thy  name  ; 
Awake,  my  tongue,  to  sound  his  praise, 
My  tongue,  the  glory  of  m}^  frame. 

10  High  o'er  the  earth  his  mercy  reigns', 
And  reaches  to  the  utmost  sky  ; 

His  truth  to  endless  years  remains, 
When  lower  worlds  dissolve  and  die. 

11  Be  thou  exalted,  O  my  God, 

Above  the  heavens  where  angels  dwell ; 
Thy  power  on  earth  be  known  abroad, 
And  land  to  land  thy  wonders  tell, 

Psalm  58.    p.  m. 

1  TUDGES,  who  rule  the  world  by  laws, 
eJ      Will  ye  despise  the  righteous  cause, 

When  vile  oppression  wastes  the  land  ? 
Dare  ye  condemn  the  righteous  poor, 
And  let  rich  sinners  'scape  secure, 

While  gold  and  greatness  bribe  your  hand? 

2  Have  ye  forgot,  or  never  knew, 
That  God  will  judge  the  judges  too  ? 

JHigh  in  the  heavens  his  justice  reigns  ; 


PSALM  LIX.  91 

Vet  you  invade  the  rights  of  God  ; 
And  send  your  bold  decrees  abroad 

To  bind  the  conscience  in  your  chains. 

3  A  poison'd  arrow  is  your  tongue, 
The  arrow  sharp,  the  poison  strong, 

And  death  attends  where'er  it  wounds : 
You  hear  no  counsels,  cries  or  tears  ; 
So  the  deaf  adder  stops  her  ears  ! 

Against  the  power  of  charming  sounds. 

4  Break  out  their  teeth,  eternal  God  ; 
Those  teeth  of  lions  dy'd  in  blood  ; 

And  crush  the  serpents  in  the  dust : 
As  empty  chaff,  when  whirlwinds  rise, 
Before  the  sweeping  tempest  flies, 

So  let  their  names  and  hopes  be  lost, 

5  Th'  Almighty  thunders  from  the  sky, 
Their  grandeur  melts,  their  titles  die. 

As  hills  of  snow  dissolve  and  run, 
Or  snails  that  perish  in  their  slime, 
Or  births  that  come  before  the  time, 

Vain  births  that  never  see  the  sun. 

6  Thus  shall  the  vengeance  of  the  Lord 
Safety  and  joy  to  saints  afford; 

And  all  that  hear  shall  join  and  say, 
"  Sure  there's  a  God  that  rules  on  high^ 
"  A  God  that  hears  his  children  cry, 

"  And  will  their  suff 'rings  well  repay.''' 

Psalm  59.    s.  m. 

1   XT' ROM  foes,  that  round  us  rise, 
X?      O  God  of  heaven,  defend, 
Who  brave  the  vengeance  of  the  skies, 
And  with  thy  saints  contend. 


I 


92  PSALM  LX. 

2  Behold,  from  distant  shores, 

And  desart  wilds  they  come, 
Combine  for  blood  their  barb'rous  force 
And  through  thy  cities  roam. 

3  Beneath  the  silent  shade, 

Their  sacred  plots  they  lay, 
Our  peaceful  walls  by  night  invade^ 
And  waste  the  fields  by  day, 

4  And  will  the  God  of  grace, 

Regardless  of  our  pain, 
Permit  secure  that  impious  race. 
To  riot  in  their  reign  ? 

5  In  vain  their  secret  guile, 

Or  open  force  they  prove  ; 
His  eye  can  pierce  the  deepest  veil, 
His  hand  their  strength  remove. 

6  Yet  save  them,  Lord,  from  death, 

Lest  we  forget  their  doom  ; 
But  drive  them  with  thine  angry  breath 
Through  distant  lands  to  roam. 

7  Then  shall  our  grateful  voice 

Proclaim  our  guardian  God  ; 
The  nations  round  the  earth  rejoice. 
And  sound  the  praise  abroad. 

Psalm  60.    l.  m. 

1  f\  GOD,  who  hast  our  troops  disperse 
V^/  Forsaking  those  who  left  thee  first ; 
As  we  thy  just  displeasure  mourn, 

To  us  in  mercy,  Lord,  return. 

2  Our  strength,  that  firm  as  earth  did  stand* 
Is  rent  by  thy  avenging  hand ; 

O  heal  the  breaches  thou  hast  made  ; 
We  shake,  we  fall,  without  thy  aid  ! 


PSALM  LX.  93 

j  Our  folly's  sad  effects  we  feel ; 

For,  drunk  with  discord's  cup,  we  reel : 
But  now  for  them,  who  thee  rever'd, 
Thou  hast  thy  truth's  bright  banner  rear'd. 

4  Let  thy  right  hand  thy  saints  protect ; 
Lord,  hear  the  prayers  that  we  direct ; 
The  holy  God  has  spoke  ;  and  I, 
O'erjoy'd  on  his  firm  word  rely. 

5  To  thee  in  portions  I  divide 

Fair  Sichem's  soil,  Samaria's  pride ; 
To  Sichem,  Succoth  next  I'll  join, 
And  measure  out  her  vale  by  line. 

6  Manasseh,  Gilead,  both  subscribe 

To  my  commands,  with  Ephraim's  tribe  ; 
Ephraim  by  arms  supports  my  cause, 
And  Judah  by  religion's  laws. 

7  Moab  my  slave  and  drudge  shall  be, 
Nor  Edom  from  my  yoke  get  free  ; 
Proud  Palestine's  imperious  state, 
Shall  humbly  on  our  triumph  wait. 

3  But  who  shall  quell  these  mighty  powers. 
And  clear  my  way  to  Edom's  towers  ? 
Or  through  her  guarded  frontiers  tread 
The  path  that  does  to  conquest  lead  ? 

9  E'en  thou,  O  God,  who  hast  disperst 
Our  troops  (for  we  forsook  thee  first) ; 
Those  whom  thou  didst  in  wrath  forsake, 
Aton'd,  thou  wilt  victorious  make. 

PART  II.    C.  M. 

Lord  thou  hast  scourg'd  our  guilty  land, 

Behold  thy  people  mourn  ; 
Shall  vengeance  ever  guide  thy  hand  ? 

And  mercy  ne'er  return? 


94  PSALM  LXI. 

11  Beneath  the  terrors  of  thine  eye, 

Earth's  haughty  towers  decay ; 
Thy  frowning  mantle  spreads  the  sky., 
And  mortals  melt  away. 

12  Our  Sion  trembles  at  thy  stroke, 

And  dreads  thy  lifted  hand  ! 
Oh,  heal  the  people  thou  hast  broke, 
And  save  the  sinking  land. 

13  Exalt  the  banner  in  the  field, 

For  those  that  fear  thy  name  ; 
From  barb'rous  hosts  our  nation  shield* 
And  put  our  foes  to  shame. 

14  Attend  our  armies  to  the  "fight, 

And  be  their  guardian  God  : 
In  vain  shall  num'rous  powers  unite, 
Against  thy  lifted  rod. 

16  Our  troops,  beneath  thy  guiding  hand, 
Shall  gain  a  glad  renown  : 
'Tis  God  who  makes  the  feeble  stand, 
And  treads  the  mighty  down. 

Psalm  61.    s.  m. 

i  II  T  HEN  overwhelm'd  with  grief, 
V  V       My  heart  within  me  dies, 
Helpless  and  far  from  all  relief, 
To  heaven  I  lift  mine  eyes. 

2  Oh  lead  me  to  the  rock 

That's  "high  above  my  head, 
And  make  the  covert  of  thy  wings 
My  shelter  and  my  shade. 

3  Within  thy  presence,  Lord, 

For  ever  I'll  abide  ; 
Thou  art  the  tower  of  my  defence, 
The  refuge  where  I  hide. 


PSALM  LXIL  95 

4  Thou  givest  me  the  lot 

Of  those  that  fear  thy  name  ; 
If  endless  life  be  their  reward, 
I  shall  possess  the  same. 

PART  II.     L.  M. 

i  5  My  soul  of  thy  protection  sure, 
Against  her  foes  shall  rest  secure  ; 
For  thou,  O  God,  hast  heard  my  vows, 
And  brought  me  joyful  to  thy  house. 

i  6  With  all  thy  saints  I'll  strive  to  sing 
The  glories  of  my  heavenly  king, 
Whom  thou  in  mercy  didst  ordain, 
Should  o'er  thy  chosen  people  reign. 
7  This  king  shall  live  for  ever  blest, 
And  give  his  people  peace  aha  rest ; 
His  years  shall  last,  and  God  will  own 
His  righteous  sceptre  and  his  throne. 

3  O  let  thy  truth  prepare  the  way, 
In  mercy,  Lord,  extend  his  sway  ; 
Thus  we'll  devote  our  future  days, 
To  pay  our  vows  and  sing  thy  praise. 

Psalm  62.  l.  m. 

1    IV  /T  Y  soul  for  help  on  God  relies  : 
.lYjL   From  him  alone  my  safety  flows  ; 
My  rock,  my  health,  that  strength  supplies, 
To  bear  the  shock  of  all  my  foes. 

How  long  will  ye  contrive  my  fall, 
Which  will  but  hasten  on  your  own ! 
You'll  totter  like  a  bending  wall, 
Or  fence  of  uncemented  stone. 
To  make  my  envy'd  honours  less, 
They  strive  with  lies,  their  chief  delight ; 


y 


9#  PSALM  LXIL 

For  they,  though  with  their  mouths  they  bless, 
In  private  curse  with  inward  spite. 

4  But  thou,  my  soul,  oii  God  rely  ; 
On  him  alone  thy  trust  repose  : 

My  rock  and  health  will  strength  supply, 
To  bear  the  shock  of  all  my  foes. 

5  God  does  his  saving  health  dispense, 
And  flowing  blessings  daily  send  ; 
He  is  my  fortress  and  defence  ; 

On  him  my  soul  shall  still  depend. 

6  In  him,  ye  people,  always  trust ; 
Before  his  throne  pour  out  your  hearts  > 
For  God,  the  merciful  and  just, 

His  timely  aid  to  us  imparts. 

PART   II. 

7  My  spirit  looks  to  God  alone  ; 
My  rock  and  refuge  is  his  throne  ; 
In  all  my  fears,  in  all  my  straits, 
My  soul  on  his  salvation  waits. 

8  Trust  him,  ye  saints,  in  all  your  waysr. 
Pour  out  your  hearts  before  his  face  ; 
When  helpers  fail,  and  foes  invade, 
God  is  our  all-sufficient  aid. 

9  False  are  the  men  of  high  degree. 
The  baser  sort  are  vanity  ; 
Laid  in  a  balance  both  appear 
Light  as  a  puff  of  empty  air. 

10  Make  not  increasing  gold  your  trust, 
Nor  set  your  hearts  on  glitt'ring  dust  -, 
Why  will  you  grasp  the  fleeting  smoke, 
And  not  believe  what  God  has  spoke  ? 

11  Once  has  his  awful  voice  declar'd, 
Once  and  again  my  ears  have  heard; 


PSALM  LXIII.  97 

All  power  is  his  eternal  due  ;,? 
He  must  be  fear'd  and  trusted  too. 
12  For  sovereign  power  reigns  not  alone, 
Grace  is  a  partner  of  the  throne  : 
Thy  grace  and  justice,  mighty  Lord, 
Shall  well  divide  our  last  reward. 

Psalm  63.  l.  m. 

1  f^i  REAT  God,  indulge  my  humble  claim 
\J  Thou  art  my  hope,  my  joy,  my  rest ; 
The  glories  that  compose  thy  name, 

Stand  all  engag'd  to  make  me  blest. 

2  Thou  great  and  good,  thou  just  and  wise, 
Thou  art  my  Father  and  my  God  ; 

And  I  am  thine,  by  sacred  ties  ; 

Thy  son,  thy  servant  bought  with  blood. 

3  With  heart,  and  eyes,  and  lifted  hands 
For  thee  I  long,  to  thee  I  look, 

As  travellers  in  thirsty  lands 
Pant  for  the  cooling  water-brook. 

4  With  early  feet  I  love  t'  appear 
Among  thy  saints,  and  seek  thy  face  ; 
Oft  have  I  seen  thy  glory  there, 
And  felt  the  power  of  sovereign  grace. 

5  Not  fruit  nor  wines  that  tempt  our  taste, 
No  pleasures  that  to  sense  belong, 
Could  make  me  so  divinely  blest,     ' 

Or  raise  so  high  my  cheerful  song, 

6  My  life  itself  without  thy  love 
No  taste  of  pleasure  would  afford  : 
'Twould  but  a  tiresome  burden  prove, 
If  I  were  banish'd  from  the  Lord. 

k.2 


98  PSALM  LXIIL 

7  Amidst  the  wakeful  hours  of  night, 
When  busy  cares  afflict  my  head, 
One  thought  of  thee  gives  new  delight. 
And  adds  refreshment  to  my  bed. 

8  I'll  lift  my  hands,  I'll  raise  my  voice. 
While  I  have  breath  to  pray  or  praise  ; 
This  work  shall  make  my  heart  rejoice* 
And  bless  the  remnant  of  my  days. 

PART    II.    c.  M. 

9  Early,  my  God,  without  delay, 

I  haste  to  seek  thy  face  : 
My  thirsty  spirit  faints  away 
Without  thy  cheering  grace. 

1 0  I've  seen  thy  glory  and  thy  power 

Through  all  thy  temples  shine  ; 
My  God,  repeat  that  heavenly  hoiu\_ 
That  vision  so  divine. 

11  Not  life  itself,  with  all  its  joys, 

Can  my  best  passions  move, 
Or  raise  so  high  my  cheerful  voice  7 
As  thy  forgiving  love. 

12  Thus  till  my  last  expiring  day 

111  bless  my  God  and  king  ; 
Thus  will  I  lift  my  hands  to  pray 
And  tune  my  lips  to  sing. 

part  III.    s.  M. 

13  My  God,  permit  my  tongue 

This  joy,  to  call  thee  mine  ; 
And  let  my  early  cries  prevail 
To  taste  thy  love  divine. 

14  Within  thy  churches,  Lord. 

I  long  to  find  my  place. 


PSALM  LXV.  99 

Thy  power  and  glory  to  behold, 
And  feel  thy  quick'ning  grace0 

15  Since  thou  hast  been  my  help, 

To  thee  my  spirit  flies, 
And  on  thy  watchful  providence,, 
My  cheerful  hope  relies. 

16  The  shadow  of  thy  wings, 

My  soul  in  safety  keeps  ; 
I  follow  where  my  father  leads, 
And  he  supports  my  steps. 

Psalm  64.    l.  m„ 

1  f^i  RE  AT  God  attend  to  my  complaint, 
\J~  Nor  let  my  drooping  spirit  faint ; 
When  foes  in  secret  spread  the  snare, 
Let  my  salvation  be  thy  care. 

3  Shield  me  without  and  guard  within, 
From  treacherous  foes  and  deadly  sin  -;. 
May  envy,  lust,  and  pride  depart, 
And  heavenly  grace  expand  my  heart 

3  Thy  justice  and  thy  power  display, 
And  scatter  far  thy  foes  away  ; 
While  list'ning  nations  learn  thy  word, 
And  saints  triumphant,  bless  the  Lord 

4  Then  shall  thy  church  exalt  her  voice. 
And  all  that  love  thy  name,  rejoice  ; 
By  faith  approach  thine  awful  thronet 
And  plead  the  merits  of  thy  Son. 

Psalm  65.    c.  m. 

I  "FJR-^-ISE  waits  in  Sion,  Lord,  for  thee? 
Jl       There  shall  our  vows  be  paid ; 
Thou  hast  an  ear  when  sinners  pray, 
All  flesh  shall  seek  thine  aid, 


100  PSALM  LXV. 

2  Lord,  our  iniquities  prevail, 

But  pard'ning  grace  is  thine, 
And  thou  wilt  grant  us  power  and  skill 
To  conquer  ev'ry  sin. 

3  Blest  are  the  men  whom  thou  wilt  choose: 

To  bring  them  near  thy  face, 
Give  them  a  dwelling  in  thine  house, 
To  feast  upon  thy  grace. 

4  In  answering  what  thy  church  requests, 

Thy  truth  and  terror  shine, 
And  works  of  dreadful  righteousness, 
Fulfil  thy  kind  design. 

5  Thus  shall  the  wond'ring  nations  see 

The  Lord  is  good  and  just ; 
And  distant  islands  fly  to  thee, 
And  make  thy  name  their  trust. 

6  They  dread  thy  glitt'ring  tokens,  Lord, 

When  signs  in  heaven  appear  ; 
But  they  shall  learn  thy  holy  word, 
And  love  as  well  as  fear. 

PART   II. 

7  The  God  of  our  salvation  hears 
The  groans  of  Sion  mix'd  with  tears  ; 
Yet  when  he  comes  with  kind  designs, 
Through  all  the  way  his  terror  shines*. 

8  On  him  the  race  of  man  depends, 
Far  as  the  earth's  remotest  ends, 
Where  the  Creator's  name  is  known, 
By  nature's  feeble  light  alone. 

9  Sailors  that  travel  o'er  the  flood, 
Address  their  frighted  souls  to  God,. 
When  tempests  rage  and  billows  roar 
At  dreadful  distance  from  the  shore. 


PSALM  LXV.  101 

10  He  bids  the  noisy  tempest  cease, 
He  calms  the  raging  crowd  to  peace, 
When  a  tumult'ous  nation  raves, 
Wild  as  the  winds,  and  loud  as  waves. 

1 1  Whose  kingdoms  shaken  by  the  storm, 
He  settles  in  a  peaceful  form  ; 
Mountains  established  by  his  hand 
Firm  on  their  old  foundations  stand. 

12  Behold  his  ensigns  sweep  the  sky, 
New  comets  blaze  and  lightnings  fly  ; 
The  heathen  lands  with  swift  surprise, 
From  the  bright  horrors  turn  their  eye> 

1 3  At  his  command  the  morning  ray 
Smiles  in  the  east,  and  leads  the  day. 
He  guides  the  sun's  declining  wheels 
Beyond  the  tops  of  western  hills. 

24  Seasons  and  times  obey  his  voice  ; 
The  evening  and  the  morn,  rejoice 
To  see  the  earth  made  soft  with  showers, 
Laden  with  fruit  and  drest  in  flowers. 

1  5  'Tis  from  his  wat'ry  stores  on  high, 
He  gives  the  thirsty  ground  supply  ; 
He  walks  upon  the  clouds,  and  thence 
Doth  his  enriching  drops  dispense. 

16  The  desart  grows  a  fruitful  field, 
Abundant  fruit  the  vallies  yield  ; 
The  vallies  shout  with  cheerful  voice, 
And  neighb'ring  hills  repeat  their  joys. 

i  7  The  pastures  smile  in  green  array, 
There  lambs  and  larger  cattle  play  ; 
The  larger  cattle  and  the  lamb, 
Each  in  his  language  speaks  thy  name, 

1-8  Thy  works  pronounce  thy  power  divine ; 
O'er  ev'ry  field  thy  glories  shine  ; 


102  PSALM  LXVI. 

Through  ev'ry  month  thy  gifts  appear : 
Great  God  thy  goodness  crowns  the  year ! 

Psalm  66.   c.  m. 

1  O  ING,  all  ye  nations  to  the  Lord, 
lO     Sing  with  a  joyful  noise  ; 
With  melody  of  sound  record 

His  honours  and  your  joys. 

2  Say  to  the  power  that  form'd  the  sky, 

"  How  terrible  art  thou  ! 
"  Sinners  before  thy  presence  fly, 
"  Or  at  thy  feet  they  bow." 

3  Come  see  the  wonders  of  our  God, 

How  glorious  are  his  ways  ! 
In  Moses'  hand  he  put  the  rod, 
And  clave  the  frighted  seas. 

4  He  made  the  ebbing  channel  dry. 

While  Israel  pass'd  the  flood  ; 
There  did  the  church  begin  their  joy, 
And  triumph  in  their  God. 

5  He  rules  by  his  resistless  might : 

Will  rebel- mortals  dare 
Provoke  th'  eternal  to  the  fight, 
And  tempt  that  dreadful  war. 
5  O  bless  our  God,  and  never  cease  ; 
Ye  saints  fulfil  his  praise  ; 
He  keeps  our  life,  maintains  our  peace, 
And  guides  our  doubtful  ways. 

7  Lord,  thou  hast  prov'd  our  sufPring  souls 

To  make  our  graces  shine  ; 
So  silver  bears  the  burning  coals, 
The  metal  to  refine. 

8  Through  wat'ry  deeps  and  fiery  ways 

We  march  at  thy  command. 


PSALM  LXVII.  103 

Led  to  possess  the  promis'd  place 
By  thine  unerring  hand. 

PART  II. 

9  Now  shall  my  solemn  vows  be  paid 
To  that  Almighty  power, 
That  heard  the  long  requests  I  made 
In  my  distressful  hour. 

10  My  lips  and  cheerful  heart  prepare 

To  make  his  mercies  known  : 
Come  ye  that  fear  my  God,  and  hear 
The  wonders  he  has  done. 

1 1  When  on  my  head  huge  sorrows  fell, 

I  sought  the  heavenly  aid  ; 
He  savd  my  sinking  soul  from  hell, 
And  death's  eternal  shade. 

12  If  sin  lay  cover'd  in  my  heart 

While  prayer  employed  my  tongue  ; 
The  Lord  had  shewn  me  no  regard, 
Nor  1  his  praises  sung. 

13  But  God  (his  name  be  ever  blest) 

Has  set  my  spirit  free  ; 
Nor  turn'd  from  him  my  poor  request, 
Nor  turn'd  his  heart  from  me. 

Psalm  67.    s.  m. 

1  r  I  ^  O  bless  thy  chosen  race 

JL       In  mercy,  Lord,  incline  ; 
And  cause  the  brightness  of  thy  face 
On  all  thy  saints  to  shine. 

2  That  so  thy  wondrous  way 

May  through  the  world  be  known ; 
Whilst  distant  lands  their  tribute  pay, 
And  thy  salvation  own. 


104  PSALM  LXVII1. 

3  Let  differing  nations  join, 

To  celebrate  thy  fame  ; 
Let  all  the  world,  O  Lord,  combine 
To  praise  thy  glorious  name. 

4  O !  let  them  shout  and  sing, 

With  joy  and  pious  mirth ; 
For  thou,  the  righteous  Judge  and  King, 
Shalt  govern  all  the  earth. 

5  Let  diff 'ring  nations  join, 

To  celebrate  thy  fame  ; 
Let  all  the  world,  O  Lord,  combine, 
To  praise  thy  glorious  name. 

6  Then  shall  the  teeming  ground 

A  large  increase  disclose  ; 
And  we  with  plenty  shall  be  crown'd. 
Which  God,  our  God,  bestows. 

7  Then  God  upon  our  land 

Shall  constant  blessings  shower ; 
And  all  the  world  in  awe  shall  stand 
Of  his  resistless  power. 

Psalm  68.  l.  m. 

1  T    ET  God,  the  God  of  battle,  rise, 

1  a  And  scatter  his  presumptuous  foes  ; 
Let  shameful  route  their  host  surprise, 
Who  spitefully  his  power  oppose. 

2  As  smoke  in  tempest's  rage  is  lost, 
Or  wax  into  the  furnace  cast ; 

So  let  their  sacrilegious  host 
Before  his  wrathful  presence  waste? 

3  But  let  the  servants  of  his  will, 
His  favours  gentle  beams  enjoy, 
Their  upright  hearts  let  gladness  fill, 
And  cheerful  songs  their  tongues  employ 


PSALM  LXVIII.  105 

4  To  him  your  voice  in  anthems  raise  ; 
Jehovah's  awful  name  he  bears  : 

In  him  rejoice,  extol  his  praise 
Who  rides  upon  high-rolling  spheres. 

5  Him,  from  his  empire  of  the  skies, 
To  this  low  world  compassion  draws, 
The  orphan's  claim  to  patronize, 
And  judge  the  injur'd  widow's  cause. 

6  'Tis  God  who  from  a  foreign  soil 
Restores  poor  exiles  to  their  home  : 
Makes  captives  free  ;  and  fruitless  toil 
Their  proud  oppressors'  righteous  doom, 

7  'Twas  so  of  old,  when  thou  didst  lead 
In  person,  Lord,  our  armies  forth  ; 
Strange  terrors  through  the  desart  spread, 
Convulsions  shook  th'  astonislrd  earth. 

5  The  breaking  clouds  did  rain  distil, 
And  heaven's  high  arches  shook  with  fear, 
How  then  should  Sinai's  humble  hill 
Of  Israel's  God  the  presence  bear  ? 

9  Thy  hand,  at  famish'd  earth's  complaint, 
Relieved  her  from  celestial  stores  ; 
And  when  thy  heritage  was  faint, 
Assuag'd  the  drought  with  plenteous  show'rs . 

10  Where  savages  had  rang'd  before, 

At  ease  thou  mad'st  our  tribes  reside  ; 
And,  in  the  desart,  for  the  poor, 
Thy  gen'rous  bounty  did  provide. 

PART   II.     CM. 

11  When  God  his  gracious  word  sent  forth 

To  make  his  chosen  glad, 
Numbers  from  east,  south,  west,  and  north 
The  joyful  tidings  spread. 


106  PSALM  LXVIII. 

12  Great  kings  of  armies  fled  apace, 

And  met  a  fatal  foil ; 
While  those  that  staid  at  home,  with  eas< 
And  pleasure  shar'd  the  spoil. 

13  Though  ye  among  the  pots  have  lain. 

Like  doves  shall  ye  appear, 
With  silver  wings  and  gold  divine, 
From  dross  and  mixture  clear. 

14  When  God  the  potent  kings  expelPd 

From  Canaan  at  his  will, 
The  whiteness  of  his  robes  excell'd 
The  snow  of  Salmon's  hill. 

15  The  hill  of  God,  his  chosen  seat, 

On  Zion's  mount  is  found  : 
Not  Bashan's  hill  can  boast  such  state, 
Nor  all  the  hills  around* 

16  Ye  lofty  hills,  why  leap  ye  so? 

This  is  the  hill  of  God: 
Here  he  hath  chose  to  dwell,  and  lo  I 
Here  is  his  fix'd  abode. 

part  in.    l.  M. 

17  His  chariots  numberless  ;  his  pow'rs 
Are  heavenly  hosts,  that  wait  his  will . 
His  presence  now  fills  Sion's  towers, 
As  once  it  honour'd  Sinai's  hill. 

18  Ascending  high,  in  triumph  thou 
Captivity  hast  captive  led  ; 

And  on  thy  people  didst  bestow 
The  spoil  of  armies,  once  their  dread, 

1 9  Even  rebels  shall  partake  thy  grace, 
And  humble  proselytes  repair, 

To  worship  at  thy  dwelling-place, 
And  all  the  world  pay  homage  therr 


PSALM  LXVIIL  107 

PART    IV. 

20  We  bless  the  Lord,  the  just,  the  good, 
Who  fills  our  hearts  with  heavenly  food  ; 
Who  pours  his  blessings  from  the  skies0 
And  loads  our  days  with  rich  supplies. 

21  He  sends  the  sun  his  circuit  round, 

To  cheer  the  fruits,  to  warm  the  ground ; 
He  bids  the  clouds  with  plenteous  rain 
Refresh  the  thirsty  earth  again. 

22  'Tis  to  his  care  we  owe  our  breath, 
And  all  our  near  escapes  from  death  -% 
Safety  and  health  to  God  belong  ; 

He  heals  the  weak  and  guards  the  strong. 
33  He  makes  the  saint  and  sinner  prove 
The  common  blessings  of  his  love  ; 
But  the  wide  difPrence  that  remains, 
Is  endless  joy,  or  endless  pains. 

24  The  Lord  that  bruis'd  the  serpent's  head, 
On  all  the  serpent's  seed  shall  tread, 
The  stubborn  sinner's  hope  confound, 
And  smite  them  with  a  lasting  wound. 

25  But  his  right  hand  his  saints  shall  raise 
From  the  deep  earth  or  deeper  seas5 
And  bring  them  to  his  courts  above  ; 
There  shall  they  taste  his  special  love 

part  V. 

26  For  benefits,  each  day  bestow'd, 
Be  daily  his  great  name  ador'd  ; 
Who  is  our  Saviour  and  our  God, 
Of  life  and  death  the  sovereign  Lord 

27  Who,  mounted  on  the  loftiest  sphere 
Of  ancient  heaven,  sublimely  rides  ; 
From  whence  his  dreadful  voice  we  hear, 
Like  that  of  warring  winds  and  tides'. 


108  PSALM  LXIX. 

28  Ascribe  ye  power  to  God  most  high 
Of  humble  Israel  he  takes  care  ; 
Whose  strength  from  out  the  dusky  sky# 
Darts  shining  terror  through  the  air. 

29  How  dreadful  are  the  sacred  courts 
Where  God  has  fix'd  his  earthly  throne  ! 
His  strength  his  feeble  saints  supports, 
To  God  give  praise,  and  him  alone. 

Psalm  69.    l.  m. 

1  O  AVE  me,  O  God,  from  waves  that  roll, 
1^   And  press  to  overwhelm  my  soul ; 
With  painful  steps  in  mire  I  tread, 

And  deluges  o'erflow  my  head. 

2  With  restless  cries  my  spirits  faint, 
My  voice  is  hoarse  with  long  complaint, 
My  sight  decays  with  tedious  pain, 
Whilst  for  my  God  I  wait  in  vain. 

3  My  hairs,  though  num'rous,  are  but  few, 
Compar'd  with  foes  that  me  pursue 

With  groundless  hate,  grown  now  of  might, 
To  execute  their  lawless  spite. 

4  For  zeal  to  thy  lov'd  house  and  name 
Consumes  me,  like  devouring  flame  ; 
Concem'd  at  their  affronts  to  thee, 
More  than  at  slanders  cast  on  me. 

5  But,  Lord,  to  thee  I  will  repair 

For  help,  with  humble  timely  prayer  , 
Relieve  me  from  thy  mercy's  store  : 
Display  thy  truth's  preserving  power. 
G  Control  the  deluge,  ere  it  spread, 
And  roll  its  waves  above  my  head  ; 
Nor  deep  destruction's  yawning  pit 
To  close  her  jaws  on  me  permit 


PSALM  LXIX.  109 

7  Reproach  and  grief  had  broke  my  heart ; 
I  look'd  for  some  to  take  my  part, 

To  pity  or  relieve  my  pain  ; 
But  look'd  alas  for  both  in  rain. 

8  With  hunger  pin'd,  for  food  I  call ; 
Instead  of  food  they  give  me  gall : 
And  when  with  thirst  my  spirits  sink. 
They  give  me  vinegar  to  drink. 

9  Their  table  therefore  to  their  health, 
Shall  prove  a  snare,  a  trap  their  wealth  ; 
Perpetual  darkness  seize  their  eyes, 
And  sudden  blasts  their  hopes  surprise. 

10  But  me,  howe'er  distressed  and  poor, 
Thy  strong  salvation  shall  restore  ; 
Thy  power  with  songs  I'll  then  proclaim*. 
And  celebrate  with  thanks  thy  name. 

il  Our  God  shall  this  more  highly  prize 
Than  herds  or  flooks  in  sacrifice  : 
Which  humble  saints  with  joy  shall  see. 
And  hope  for  like  redress  with  me. 

12  For  God  regards  the  poor's  complaint ; 
Sets  pris'ners  free  from  close  restraint : 
Let  heaven,  earth,  sea,  their  voices  raise, 
And  all  the  world  resound  his  praise. 

13  For  God  will  Sion's  walls  erect ; 
Fair  Judah's  cities  he'll  protect ; 
Till  all  her  scatter'd  sons  repair 
To  undisturbed  possessions  there. 

14  This  blessing  they  shall  at  their  death 
To  their  religious  heirs  bequeath  ; 
And  they  to  endless  ages  more, 

Of  such  as  his  blest  name  adore, 

L  2 


110  PSALM  LXX. 

PART   II.    C.  M. 

15  Father,  I  sing  thy  wondrous  grace, 

I  bless  my  Saviour's  name, 
He  bought  salvation  for  the  poor, 
And  bore  the  sinner's  shame. 

16  His  deep  distress  has  rais'd  us  high, 

His  duty  and  his  zeal 
FulfiTd  the  law  which  mortals  broke. 
And  finish'd  all  thy  will. 

17  His  dying  groans,  his  living  songs 

Shall  better  please  my  God, 
Than  harp  or  trumpet's  solemn  sound. 
Than  goafs  or  bullock's  blood. 

18  This  shall  his  humble  followers  see, 

And  set  their  hearts  at  rest ; 
They  by  his  death  draw  near  to  thee, 
And  live  for  ever  blest. 

19  Let  heaven  and  all  that  dwell  on  high 

To  God  their  voices  raise, 
While  lands  and  seas  assist  the  sky, 
And  join  t'  advance  his  praise. 

20  Sion  is  thine,  most  holy  God, 

Thy  Son  shall  bless  her  gates  ; 
And  glory  purchas'd  by  his  blood 
For  thine  own  Israel  waits. 

Psalm  70.   c.  m. 

1  TN  haste,  O  God,  attend  my  call, 
J     Nor  hear  my  cries  in  vain  ; 
Oh  let  thy  speed  prevent  my  fall, 

And  still  my  hope  sustain. 

2  When  foes  insidious  wound  my  name, 

And  tempt  my  soul  astray, 


PSALM  LXXI.  ill 

Then  let  them  fall  with  lasting  shame, 
To  their  own  plots  a  prey. 

3  While  all  that  love  thy  name  rejoice, 

And  glory  in  thy  word, 
In  thy  salvation  raise  their  voice, 
And  magnify  the  Lord. 

4  O  thou  my  help  in  time  of  need, 

Behold  my  sore  dismay  ; 
In  pity  hasten  to  my  aid, 
Nor  let  thy  grace  delay. 

Psalm  71.   c.  m. 

1  "\ /fY  God,  my  everlasting  hope, 
^LVX     I  nve  upon  thy  truth  ; 

Thine  hands  have  held  my  childhood  up. 
And  strengthen'd  all  my  youth. 

2  My  flesh  was  fashion'd  by  thy  power, 

With  all  these  limbs  of  mine  ; 
And  from  my  mother's  painful  hour 
I've  been  entirely  thine. 

3  Still  has  my  life  new  wonders  seen 

Repeated  ev'ry  year ; 
Behold  my  days  that  yet  remain, 
I  trust  them  to  thy  care. 

4  Cast  me  not  off  when  strength  declines., 

When  hoary  hairs  arise  ; 
And  round  me  let  thy  glory  shine, 
Whene'er  thy  servant  dies. 

5  Then  in  the  hist'ry  of  my  age, 

When  men  review  my  days, 
They'll  read  thy  love  in  ev'ry  page., 
In  ev'ry  line  thy  praise. 


112  PSALM  LXXI. 

PART   II. 

6  My  Saviour,  my  almighty  friend, 

When  I  begin  thy  praise, 
Where  will  the  growing  numbers  end. 
The  numbers  of  thy  grace  ? 

7  Thou  art  my  everlasting  trust, 

Thy  goodness  I  adore  ; 
And  since  I  knew  thy  graces  first 
I  speak  thy  glories  more. 

8  My  feet  shall  travel  all  the  length 

Of  the  celestial  road, 
And  march  with  courage  in  thy  strength 
To  see  my  Father  God. 

9  When  I  am  filled  with  sore  distress. 

For  some  surprisingsin, 
I'll  plead  thy  perfect  righteousness, 
And  mention  none  but  thine. 

10  How  will  my  lips  rejoice  to  tell 

The  victories  of  my  king ! 
My  soul,  redeem'd  from  sin  and  hell, 
Shall  thy  salvation  sing, 

11  My  tongue  shall  all  the  day  proclaim 

My  Saviour  and  my  God, 
His  death  has  brought  my  foes  to  shame; 
And  sav'd  me  by  his  blood. 

12  Awake,  awake  my  tuneful  powers  ; 

With  this  delightful  song 

I'll  entertain  the  darkest  hours, 

Nor  think  the  season  long. 

PART   III. 

13  God  of  my  childhood,  and  my  youth, 

The  guide  of  all  my  days, 


PSALM  LXXII.  113 

1  have  declar'd  thy  heavenly  truth, 
And  told  thy  wondrous  ways. 

14  Wilt  thou  forsake  my  hoary  hairs, 

And  leave  my  fainting  heart  ? 
Who  shall  sustain  my  sinking  years 
If  God  my  strength  depart  ? 

15  Let  me  thy  power  and  truth  proclaim 

Before  the  rising  age, 
And  leave  a  savour  of  thy  name 
When  I  shall  quit  the  stage. 

16  The  land  of  silence  and  of  death 

Attends  my  next  remove  ; 
O  may  these  poor  remains  of  breath 
Teach  the  wide  world  thy  love  ! 

17  Thy  righteousness  is  deep  and  high, 

Unsearchable  thy  deeds ; 
Thy  glory  spreads  beyond  the  sky, 
And  all  my  praise  exceeds, 

18  Oft  have  I  heard  thy  threat'nings  roar, 

And  oft  endur'd  the  grief; 
But  when  thy  hand  has  prest  me  sore, 
Thy  grace  was  my  relief. 

i9  By  long  experience  have  I  known 
Thy  sovereign  power  to  save  ; 
At  thy  command  I  venture  down 
Securely  to  the  grave. 

20  When  I  lie  buried  deep  in  dust, 
My  flesh  shall  be  thy  care  ; 
These  wither'd  limbs  with  thee  I  trust 
To  raise  them  strong  and  fair. 

Psalm  72.   c.  m. 


l 


ORD  let  thy  just  decrees  the  king 
In  all  his  wavs  direct ; 


114  PSALM  LXXIL 

And  let  his  son,  throughout  his  reign. 
Thy  righteous  laws  respect. 

2  So  shall  he  still  thy  people  judge 

With  pure  and  upright  mind, 
Whilst  all  the  helpless  poor  shall  him 
Their  just  protector  find- 

3  Then  hills  and  mountains  shall  bring  forth 

The  happy  fruits  of  peace  ; 
Which  all  the  land  shall  own  to  be 
The  works  of  righteousness. 

4  Whilst  he  the  poor  and  needy  race 

Shall  rule  with  gentle  sway, 
And  from  their  humble  necks  shall  take 
Oppressive  yokes  away. 

5  In  ev'ry  heart  thy  awful  fear 

Shall  then  be  rooted  fast, 
As  long  as  sun  and  moon  endure, 
Or  time  itself  shall  last. 

6  He  shall  descend  like  rain  that  cheers 

The  meadow's  second  birth  ; 
Or  like  warm  showers,  whose  gentle  drops 
Refresh  the  thirsty  earth. 

7  In  his  bless'd  days  the  just  and  good 

Shall  be  with  favour  crown'd  ; 
The  happy  land  shall  ev'ry  where 
With  endless  peace  abound. 

8  His  uncontroul'd  dominion  shall 

From  sea  to  sea  extend  ; 
Begin  at  proud  Euphrates'  streams, 
At  nature's  limits  end. 

9  To  him  the  savage  nations  round 

Shall  bow  their  servile  heads  : 
His  vanquish'd  foes  shall  lick  the  dust 
Where  he  his  conquest  spreads. 


PSALM  LXXII.  115 

10  The  kings  of  Tarshish,  and  the  isles, 

Shall  costly  presents  bring  ; 
From  Spicy  Sheba  gifts  shall  come,    . 
And  wealthy  Saba's  king. 

1 1  To  him  shall  ev'ry  king  on  earth 

His  humble  homage  pay  ; 
And  diff  'ring  nations  gladly  join 
To  own  his  righteous  sway. 

12  For  he  shall  set  the  needy  free, 

When  they  for  succour  cry  ; 
Shall  save  the  helpless,  and  the  poor, 
And  all  their  wants  supply. 

PART   II. 

13  His  providence  for  needy  souls 

Shall  due  supplies  prepare, 
And  over  their  defenceless  lives 
Shall  watch  with  tender  care. 

14  He  shall  preserve  and  keep  their  souls 

From  fraud  and  rapine  free  ; 
And  in  his  sight  their  guiltless  blood 
Of  mighty  price  shall  be. 

15  Therefore  shall  God  his  life  and  reign 

To  many  years  extend  ; 
Whilst  eastern  princes  tribute  pay, 
And  golden  presents  send. 

16  For  him  shall  constant  prayers  be  made 

Through  all  his  prosp'rous  days  : 
His  just  dominion  shall  afford 
A  lasting  theme  of  praise. 

17  Of  useful  grain,  through  all  the  land[. 

Great  plenty  shall  appear  ; 
A  handful  sown  on  mountain-tops 
A  mighty  crop  shall  bear, 


116  PSALM  LXXIII. 

18  Its  fruit  like  cedars  shook  by  wind- 

A  ratt'ling  noise  shall  yield  : 
The  city  too  shall  thrive,  and  vie 
For  plenty,  with  the  field. 

1 9  The  mem'ry  of  his  glorious  name 

Through  endless  years  shall  run  ; 
His  spotless  fame  shall  shine  as  bright 
And  lasting  as  the  sun. 

20  In  him  the  nations  of  the  world 

Shall  be  completely  bless'd, 
And  his  unbounded  happiness 
By  ev'ry  tongue  confess'd. 

21  Then  bless'd  be  God,  the  mighty  Lord, 

The  God  whom  Israel  fears  ; 
Who  only  wondrous  in  his  works 
Beyond  compare  appears. 

22  Let  earth  be  with  his  glory  filPd  ; 

For  ever  bless'd  his  name  ; 
Whilst  to  his  praise  the  list'ning  world 
Their  glad  assent  proclaim. 

Psalm  73.  l.  m. 

1  AT  length,  by  certain  proofs,  'tis  plain 
JOjl   That  God  will  to  his  saints  be  kind ! 
That  all  whose  hearts  are  pure  and  clean 
Shall  his  protecting  favour  find. 

2  Till  this  sustaining  truth  I  knew, 
My  stagg'ring  feet  had  almost  fail'd  : 
I  griev'd  the  sinner's  wealth  to  view, 
And  envy'd  when  the  fools  prevail'd. 

3  They  to  the  grave  in  peace  descend, 
And,  whilst  they  live,  are  hale  and  strong  ; 
No  plague  or  troubles  them  offend, 
Which  oft  to  other  men  belong. 


PSALM  LXXIII.  117 

4  With  pride,  as  with  a  chain  they're  held, 
And  rapine  seems  their  robe  of  state  ; 
Their  eyes  stand  out,  with  fatness  swell 'd 
They  grow  beyond  their  wishes  great. 

5  With  hearts  corrupt,  and  lofty  talk, 
Oppressive  methods  they  defend  ; 

Their  tongue  through  all  the  earth  will  talk 
Their  blasphemies  to  heaven  ascend. 

6  And  yet  admiring  crowds  are  found. 
Who  servile  visits  duly  make  ; 
Because  with  plenty  they  abound, 

Of  which  their  fiatt'ring  slaves  partake. 

7  Their  fond  opinions  these  pursue, 
Till  they  with  them  profanely  cry, 

%i  How  should  the  Lord  our  actions  view ' 
Ci  Can  he  perceive  who  dwells  so  high  ? 

8  Behold  the  wicked  !  these  are  they 
Who  openly  their  sins  profess  ; 

And  yet  their  wealth's  increas'd  each  day, 
And  all  their  actions  meet  success. 

9  "  Then  have  I  cleans'd  my  heart  (said  I), 

"  And  wash'd  my  hands  from  guilt  in  vain  ; 
"  If  all  the  day  oppress'd  I  lie, 
"  And  ev'ry  morning  suffer  pain." 

10  Thus  did  I  once  to  speak  intend : 
But  if  such  things  I  rashly  say, 
Thy  children,  Lord,  I  must  offend, 
And  basely  should  their  cause  betray. 

PART   II. 

11  To  fathom  this  my  thoughts  I  bent ; 
But  found  the  case  too  hard  for  me, 
Till  to  the  house  of  God  I  went ; 
Then  I  their  end  did  plainly  see. 

M 


116  PSALM  LXXI1I. 

1 2  How  high  soe'er  advanc'd,  they  all 
On  slipp'ry  places  loosely  stand  ; 
Thence  into  ruin  headlong  fall, 
Cast  down  by  thy  avenging  hand. 

1  3  How  dreadful  and  how  quick  their  fate  ! 
Despis'd  by  thee,  when  they're  destroy 'd  ; 
As  waking  men  with  scorn  "do  treat 
The  fancies  that  their  dreams  employ'd. 

1-4  Thus  was  my  heart  with  grief  opprest, 
My  reins  were  rack'd  with  restless  pains  ; 
So  stupid  was  I  like  a  beast, 
Who  no  reflecting  thought  retains. 

15  Yet  still  thy  presence  me  supply'd, 
And  thy  right  hand  assistance  gave  : 
Thou  first  shalt  with  thy  counsel  guide, 
And  then  to  glory  me  receive. 

16  Whom  then  in  heaven  but  thee  alone 
Have  I  whose  favour  I  require  ? 
Throughout  the  spacious  earth  there's  none 
That  1  besides  thee  can  desire. 

a  7  My  trembling  flesh  and  aching  heart, 
May  often  fail  to  succour  me  ; 
But  God  shall  inward  strength  impart, 
And  my  eternal  portion  be. 

18  For  they  that  far  from  thee  remove 
Shall  into  sudden  ruin  fall ; 

If  after  other  gods  they  rove, 

Thy  vengeance  shall  destroy  them  all- 

1 9  But  as  for  me  'tis  good  and  just 
That  I  should  still  to  God  repair  ; 
In  him  I  always  put  my  trust, 

Vid  will  his  wondrous  works  declare. 


PSALM  LXXIW  fff 

PART   III. 

20  Sure  there's  a  righteous  God, 

Nor  is  religion  vain  ; 
Though  men  of  vice  may  boast  aloud*, 
And  men  of  grace  complain. 

21  I  saw  the  wicked  rise, 

And  felt  my  heart  repine, 
While  haughty  fools  with  scornful  eyes., 
In  robes  of  honour  shine. 

22  The  tumult  of  my  thought 

Held  me  in  hard  suspense, 
Till  to  thy  house  my  feet  were  brought 
To  learn  thy  justice  thence. 

23  Thy  word  with  light  and  power.  " 

Did  my  mistake  amend  ; 
I  view'd  the  sinners'  life  before, 
But  here  I  learnt  their  end. 

24  On  what  a  slipp'ry  steep 

The  thoughtless  wretches  go  j 
And  O  that  dreadful  fiery  deep,, 
That  waits  their  fall  below ! 

25  Lord,  at  thy  feet  I  bow, 

My  thoughts  no  more  repino* 
T  call  my  God  my  portion  now? 
And  all  my  powers  are  thine. 

Psalm  74.    c,  m. 

1  "W  7*  ILL  God  for  ever  cast  us  off'. 

V  V       His  wrath  for  ever  smoke, 
Against  the  people  of  his  love, 
His  little  chosen  flock  ? 

2  Think  of  the  tribes  so  dearly  bought 

With  their  Redeemer's  blood ; 


120  PSALM  LXXIV. 

Nor  let  thy  Slon  be  forgot, 
Where  once  thy  glory  stood. 

3  Lift  up  thy  feet,  and  march  in  haste, 

Aloud  our  ruin  calls  ; 
See  what  a  wide  and  fearful  waste 
Is  made  within  thy  walls. 

4  Where  once  thy  churches  pray'd  and  sang, 

Thy  foes  profanely  rage  ; 
Amid  thy  gates  their  ensigns  hang, 
And  there  their  hosts  engage. 

5  How  are  the  seats  of  worship  broke  ? 

They  tear  the  buildings  down, 
And  he  that  deals  the  heaviest  stroke, 
Procures  the  chief  renown. 

6  With  flames  they  threaten  to  destroy 

Thy  children  in  their  rest ; 
Come  let  us  bum  at  once,  they  cry, 
The  temple  and  the  priest. 

7  And  still  to  heighten  our  distress, 

Thy  presence  is  withdrawn  ; 
Thy  wonted  signs  of  power  and  grace  ; 
Thy  power  and  grace  are  gone. 

8  No  prophet  speaks  to  calm  our  grief, 

But  aliMn  silence  mourn  ;  ^ 

Nor  know  the  times  of  our  relief, 
The  hour  of  thy  return. 

9  How  long,  eternal  God,  how  long, 

Shall  men  of  pride  blaspheme  ? 
Shall  saints  be  made  their  endless  song> 
And  bear  immortal  shame  ? 

10  Canst  thou  for  ever  sit  and  hear 
Thine  holy  name  profan'd  ? 
And  still  thy  jealousy  forbear, 
And  still  withhold" thine  hand  ? 


PSALM  LXXV.  121 

il  What  strange  deliv'rance  hast  thou  shown 
In  ages  long  before  ? 
And  now  no  other  God  we  own, 
No  other  God  adore. 
\2  Thou  didst  divide  the  raging  sea 
By  thy  resistless  might, 
To  make  thy  tribes  a  wondrous  way. 
And  then  secure  their  flight. 

13  Is  not  the  world  of  nature  thine, 

The  darkness  and  the  day  ? 
Didst  thou  not  bid  the  morning  shine, 
And  mark  the  sun  his  way  ? 

14  Hath  not  thy  power  form'd  ev'ry  coast, 

And  set  the  earth  its  bounds, 
With  summer's  heat,  and  winter's  frost, 
In  their  perpetual  rounds  ? 

15  And  shall  the  sons  of  earth  and  dust 

That  sacred  power  blaspheme  ? 
Will  not  thy  hand  that  form'd  them  first 
Avenge  thine  injur'd  name  ? 

16  Think  on  the  cov'nant  thou  hast  made2 

And  all  thy  words  of  love  ; 
Nor  let  the  birds  of  prey  invade 
And  vex  thy  trembling  dove. 

17  Our  foes  will  triumph  in  our  blood, 

And  make  our  hope  their  jest ; 
Plead  thine  own  cause,  almighty  God, 
And  give  thy  children  rest. 

Psalm  75.  l.  m. 

1   r  I  ^O  thee,  most  high  and  holy  God, 
JL     To  thee  our  thankful  hearts  we  raise  ; 
Thy  works  declare  thy  name  abroad, 
Thy  wondrous  works  demand  our  praise, 

M  2 


x22  PSALM  LXXVI. 

2  To  slav'ry  doom'd,  thy  chosen  sons 
Beheld  their  foes  triumphant  rise ; 
And  sore  opprest  by  earthly  thrones, 
They  sought  the  sovereign  of  the  skies. 
»  ;Twas  then,  great  God,  with  equal  power, 
Arose  thy  vengeance  and  thy  grace, 
To  scourge  their  legions  from  the  shore. 
And  save  the  remnant  of  thy  race. 

4  Thy  hand  that  form'd  the  restless  main. 
And  rear'd  the  mountain's  awful  head. 
Bade  raging  seas  their  course  restrain. 
And  desert  wilds  receive  their  dead. 

i  Such  wonders  never  come  by  chance 
Nor  can  the  winds  such  blessings  blow  ; 
'Tis  God  the  judge  doth  one  advance, 
Tis  God  that  lays  another  low. 

o  Let  haughty  tyrants  sink  their  pride, 
Nor  lift  so  high  their  scornful  head  ; 
But  lay  their  impious  thoughts  aside, 
And  own  the  empire  God  hath  made. 

Psalm  76.   p.  m. 

i   TN  Judah  the  Almighty's  known  ; 
J[   Almighty  there  by  wonders  shown  ; 

His  name  in  Jacob  does  excel : 
His  sanctuary  in  Salem  stands  : 
The  majesty  "that  heaven  commands 

In  Sion  condescends  to  dwell. 
2  He  brake  the  bow  and  arrows  there, 

The  shield,  the  temper'd  sword,  and  spear , 

There  slain  the  mighty  army  lay  : 
Whence  Sion's  fame  through  earth  is  spread 
Of  greater  glory,  greater  dread, 

Than  hills  where  robbers  lodge  their  prey. 


PSALM  LXXVI1.  125 

Their  valiant  chiefs,  who  came  for  spoil, 
Themselves  met  there  a  shameful  foil  j 

Securely  down  to  sleep  they  lay  ; 
But  wak'd  no  more  ;   their  stoutest  band 
Ne'er  lifted  one  resisting  hand 

'Gainst  his  that  did  their  legions  slay- 
When  Jacob's  God  began  to  frown, 
Both  horse  and  chariotteers  o'erthrown, 

Together  slept  in  endless  night : 
When  thou,  whom  earth  and  heaven  revere. 
Dost  once  with  wrathful  look  appear, 

What  mortal  power  can  stand  thy  sight  ? 

Pronounc'd  from  heaven,  earth  heard  its  doori: 
Grew  hush'd  with  fear,  when  thou  didst  comCj 

The  meek  with  justice  to  restore  : 
The  wrath  of  man  shall  yield  thee  praise  ; 
Its  last  attempts  but  serve  to  raise 

The  triumphs  of  almighty  power. 

Vow  to  the  Lord  ;  ye  nations  bring 
Vow'd  presents  to  th'  eternal  King  : 

Thus  to  his  name  due  rev'rence  pay ; 
Who  proudest  potentates  can  quell, 
To  earthly  kings  more  terrible, 

Than  to  their  trembling  subjects  they. 

Psalm  77.  c.  m. 

TO  God  I  cry'd  with  mournful  voice, 
I  sought  his  gracious  ear, 
In  the  sad  hour,  when  trouble  rose, 

And  fill'd  my  heart  with  fear. 
Sad  were  my  days,  and  dark  my  nights, 

My  soul  refus'd  relief ; 
I  thought  on  God,  the  just  and  wise, 
But  thoughts  increased  my  grief. 


124  PSALM  LXXVII. 

3  Still  I  complain'd  and  still  opprest, 

My  heart  began  to  break  ; 
My  God,  thy  wrath  forbade  my  rest, 
And  kept  my  eyes  awake. 

4  My  overwhelming  sorrows  grew, 

'Till  I  could  speak  no  more ; 
Then  I  within  myself  withdrew, 
And  calPd  thy  judgments  o'er. 

5  I  call'd  back  years  and  ancient  times 

When  I  beheld  thy  face  ; 
My  spirit  search'd  for  secret  crimes 
That  might  withhold  thy  grace. 

6  I  call'd  thy  mercies  to  my  mind, 

Which  I  enjoy 'd  before  ; 
And  will  the  Lord  no  mx>re  be  kind ; 
His  face  appear  no  more  ? 

7  Will  he  for  ever  cast  me  off? 

His  promise  ever  fail  ? 
Has  he  forgot  his  tender  love  ? 
Shall  anger  still  prevail  ? 

8  But  I  forbid  this  hopeless  thought, 

This  dark,  despairing  frame, 
Rememb'ring  what  thy  hand  hath  wrought ; 
Thy  hand  is  still  the  same. 

9  Til  think  again  of  all  thy  ways, 

And  talk  thy  wonders  o'er, 
Thy  wonders  of  recov'ring  grace, 

When  flesh  could  hope  no  more. 
10  Grace  dwelt  with  justice  on  the  throne ; 

And  men  that  love  thy  word, 
Have  in  thy  sanctuary  known 

The  counsels  of  the  Lord. 


PSALM  LXXVII  125 

PART   II. 

II"  How  awful  is  thy  chast'ning  rod ! 
"(May  thy  own  children  say) 
"  The  great,  the  wise,  the  dreadful  God  \ 
"  How  holy  is  his  way  !" 

12  I'll  meditate  his  works  of  old, 

Who  reigns  in  heaven  above  ; 
Til  hear  his  ancient  wonders  told, 
And  learn  to  trust  his  love. 

13  He  saw  the  house  of  Joseph  lie 

With  Egypt's  yoke  opprest ; 
Long  he  delayed  to  hear  their  cry, 
Nor  gave  his  people  rest. 

1  i  The  sons  of  pious  Jacob  seem'd 
Abandoned  to  their  foes  ; 
But  his  almighty  arm  redeem'd 
The  nation  whom  he  chose. 

15  From  slavish  chains  he  set  them  free, 

They  follow  where  he  calls  ; 
He  bade  them  venture  through  the  sea. 
And  made  the  waves  their  walls. 

16  The  waters  saw  thee,  mighty  God, 

The  waters  saw  thee  come  ; 
Backward  they  fled,  and  frighted  stood, 
To  give  thine  armies  room. 

17  Strange  was  thy  journey  through  the  sea, 

Thy  footsteps,  Lord,  unknown  ; 
Terrors  attend  the  wondrous  way 
That  brings  thy  mercies  down, 

18  Thy  voice  with  terror  in  the  sound 

Through  clouds  and  darkness  broke  ; 
All  heaven  in  lightning  shone  around 
And  earth  with  thunder  shook, 


126  PSALM  LXXVIIL 

19  Thine  arrows  through  the  skies  were  hurPd, 

How  glorious  is  the  Lord  ! 
Surprise  and  trembling  seiz'd  the  world, 
And  all  his  saints  ador'd. 

20  He  gave  them  water  from  the  rock  ; 

And  safe  by  Moses'  hand, 
Through  a  dry  desart  led  his  flock 
To  Canaan's  promis'd  land. 

Psalm  78.    p.  m. 

1  T  TEAR,  O  my  people,  to  my  law 
XT  Your  most  devout  attention  lend : 
Let  the  instructions  of  my  mouth, 
Deep  in  your  faithful  hearts  descend, 
My  tongue  shall  parables  unfold, 

And  bring  to  light  dark  things  of  old. 

2  Which  our  fore-fathers'  pious  care, 
From  ancient  times  nas  handed  down ; 
Nor  will  we  hide  them  from  our  sons, 
But  to  our  offspring  make  them  known, 
That  they  the  praises  may  be  taught 

Of  God,  who  hath  such  wonders  wrought, 

3  For  Jacob  he  his  law  ordain'd, 
This  solemn  league  for  Israel  made, 
With  charge  to  be  from  age  to  age, 
From  race  to  race  with  care  convey 'd  ; 
To  be  transmitted  to  their  heirs, 
Which  they  again  might  give  to  theirs. 

4  That  they  might  God's  commands  obey, 
And  in  his  strength  their  safety  place  ; 
And  not  like  their  forefathers,  prove 

A  stubborn  and  rebellious  race, 
Who  still  the  paths  of  error  trod, 
Nor  put  their  stedfast  hope  in  God, 


PSALM  LXXVIII.  127 

5  Such  were  revolting  EphrairrCs  sons, 
Who  from  the  field  ignobly  fled ; 
Tho'  skilful  archers  arm'd  with  bows, 
And  to  a  constant  warfare  bred, 
Tho'  God  to  them  his  works  display'd, 
Yet  they  his  orders  disobey'd, 

6  The  wonders  which  their  fathers  saw, 
They  in  their  minds  did  not  retain  ; 
Prodigious  things  in  Egypt  done. 
And  miracles  in  Zion's  plain  : 

For  them  he  did  the  sea  divide, 
And  pil'd  in  heaps  the  pressing  tide ; 

7  A  wondrous  pillar  led  them  on, 
Compos'd  of  shade  and  radiant  light ; 
A  shelt'ring  cloud  it  prov'd  by  day, 
And  was  a  leading  fire  by  night. 
Thus  went  they  thro'  a  desart  land? 
Conducted  by  his  powerful  hand. 

3  When  drought  oppress'd  them,    where  no 
The  parched  wilderness  supply 'd,   [streams 
He  cleft  the  rock,  whose  flinty  breast 
Dissolved  into  a  cooling  tide, 
Which  down  in  plenteous  rivers  fell, 
And  prov'd  a  constant  miracle. 

9  Yet  there  they  sinn'd  against  him  more. 
Provoking  still  the  Lord  most  high, 
In  that  same  desart,  where  he  did 
Their  fainting  soul  with  strength  supply  , 
His  pow'r  supreme,  they  did  distrust, 
And  long'd  for  meat  to  feed  their  lust. 

10  Then  uttered  their  blasphemous  doubts, 
"Can  God,  say  they,  for  us  prepare 
"  A  table  in  the  wilderness, 
."  And  set  it  out  with  various  fare? 


128  PSALM  LXXVIII. 

"  'Tis  true,  he  did  the  rock  divide, 
"  But  can  he  corn  and  flesh  provide  ?" 

1 1  The  Lord  with  indignation  heard, 
And  from  the  heav'ns  avenging  flama 
On  Jacob  fell ;   consuming  wrath 

On  most  ungrateful  Isr'el  came  : 
For  they  would  not  in  God  confide, 
Who  had  so  oft  their  wants  supply'd. 

12  Tho'  God  had  from  the  fruitful  clouds, 
Around  their  camp  his  manna  spread, 
And  had  with  angels'  sacred  food, 
Ungrateful  man  in  plenty  fed ; 
Which  from  his  own  celestial  stores, 
Was  rained  down  in  frequent  show'rs. 

13  From  heav'n  he  made  an  east  wind  blow, 
And  likewise  did  the  south  command 
To  rain  down  flesh,   like  dust,  and  fowls 
Like  the  sea  shore's  unnumber'd  sands, 
Around  their  tents  an  easy  prey, 

The  fluttering  feather'd  booty  lay. 
i4  Thus  gave  he  them  their  heart's  desire, 
And  they  luxurious  eat  the  same  ; 
But  whilst  the  meat  was  in  their  mouths, 
God's  heavy  wrath  upon  them  came  ; 
He  slew  the  wealthiest  of  them  all ; 
And  Israel's  chiefs  were  made  to  fall. 

PART   II. 

15  Yet  still  they  sinn'd  nor  would  afford 
His  wondrous  miracles  belief; 
Therefore  thro'  fruitless  travels,  he 
Consum'd  their  lives  in  wasting  grief; 
When  some  were  slain,  with  early  cry, 
They  turn'd  and  sought  the  Lord  most  high. 


PSALM  LXXVIII.  129 

16  But  this  was  feign'd  submission  all, 
Their  treach'rous  hearts  their  tongues  bely'd. 
They  still  remain'd  perverse,  nor  would 
Firm  in  his  covenant  abide  ; 

And  yet  his  anger  did  not  rise, 

Nor  would  with  death  their  sins  chastise. 

17  For  he  remember'd  they  were  flesh, 
And  could  not  long  on  earth  remain ; 
A  murm'ring  wind  that's  quickly  past. 
And  never  more  returns  again  ; 

His  mercy  knew  they  were  but  frail, 
And  would  not  let  his  wrath  prevail. 
i  8  How  oft  did  they  provoke  him  there  ! 
How  oft  did  they  his  patience  grieve  ! 
In  that  same  desert,  where  he  did 
Their  fainting  souls  with  food  relieve, 
They  turn'd  back,  and  faithless  prov'd* 
And  Israel's  God  to  anger  mov'd. 

19  Nor  did  they  call  to  mind  the  day, 
When  God,  with  his  almighty  hand, 
Deliver'd  them  from  all  their  foes, 
And  show'd  his  signs  in  Egypt's  land, 
When  he  their  tribes  from  bondage  brought, 
And  wondrous  things  in  Zoan  wrought. 

20  Their  rivers,  that  they  might  not  drink, 
Were  turn'd  to  blood  at  his  command ; 
Devouring  Mies  in  thickest  swarms  ; 
And  frogs  were  sent  to  plague  the  land ; 
Locusts  and  worms  o'erspread  their  soil, 
And  reap'd  the  harvest  of  their  toil. 

21  Their  vines  with  batt'ring  hail  were  broke, 
With  pinching  frost  the  fig-tree  dies  ; 
Lightning  and  hail  made  flocks  and  herds, 
To  fall  one  general  sacrifice. 

N 


130  PSALM  LXXVIII. 

His  wrath  their  trouble  to  increase, 
By  evil  angels  broke  their  peace. 

22  He  clear 'd  a  passage  for  his  wrath, 
Nor  would  his  anger  fierce  controul ; 
But  gave  their  life  to  pestilence, 

Nor  spar'd  from  death  the  fainting  soul. 
Upon  their  heirs  destruction  came, 
The  first  born  in  the  tents  of  Ham. 

23  But  his  own  tribe,  like  folded  sheep. 
He  brought  in  safety  from  distress, 
And  like  a  flock,  conducted  them 
Thro'  a  long  barren  wilderness  ; 
Their  foes  were  in  the  ocean  drown'd, 
But  they  no  cause  of  terror  found. 

24  Nor  ceas'd  his  care,  'till  them  he  brought 
In  safety  to  the  promis'd  land  : 

And  to  his  holy  mount,  the  prize 
Obtained  by  his  victorious  hand ; 
For  them  he  did  his  arm  extend, 
And  from  the  foe  their  hosts  defend. 
J 5  To  them  the  outcast  heathen's  land, 
He  did  in  equal  lots  divide ; 
And  in  their  foes  abandon'd  tents, 
Made  Israel's  tribes  secure  abide  : 
For  them  he  quell 'd  the  nations  round, 
And  plac'd  them  on  the  promis'd  ground. 

PART    III. 

26  But  still  they  tempted,  still  provok'd 
The  anger  of  the  Lord  most  high  ; 
Nor  would,  to  practise  his  commands 
Their  most  rebellious  hearts  apply  : 
But  turn'd  like  a  deceitful  bow, 

And  in  their  father's  steps  would  go. 

27  For  God  to  fury  they  provok'd, 
With  idol  altars  set  on  high. 


PSALM  LXXVIII.  131. 

And  with  their  graven  images, 
Inflam'd  to  wrath  his  jealousy  ; 
On  Israel  then  his  hatred  fell, 
And  Shiloh  where  he  lov'd  to  dwell. 

28  To  vile  captivity,  his  ark, 

His  strength  and  glory  to  disdain, 
His  people  to  the  sword  he  gave, 
Nor  would  his  awful  wrath  restrain  : 
Amongst  their  youth  his  anger  spread, 
Nor  were  their  maids  to  marriage  led. 

29  In  flight  the  sacrificer  fell, 

The  priest  himself  a  victim  bled  ; 
Nor  were  there  any  widows  left, 
Who  should  with  tears  lament  the  dead. 
Then  like  a  giant  strong  with  wine. 
The  Lord  awak'd  in  wrath  divine. 

30  He  smote  his  foes,  that  from  the  field 
Their  vanquish  Yi  scattered  remnants  came, 
With  wounds  imprinted  on  their  backs, 
The  marks  of  everlasting  shame  : 
The  tents  of  Joseph  he  forsook, 
Nor  Ephraim  for  his  dwelling  took. 

But  Judah's  favour'd  tribe  he  chose, 
And  made  his  own  peculiar  care  ; 
On  Sion's  mount  his  temple  built, 
And  fix'd  its  strong  foundations  there . 
From  sheep-folds  he  did  David  bring, 
And  over  Judah  made  him  king. 
:  From  tending  on  the  teeming  ewes 
He  brought  his  servant  forth  to  feed 
His  people,  and  inheritance, 
The  tribes  of  Isr'el's  chosen  seed  : 
And  he  a  faithful  shepherd  still, 
Fed  and  conducted  them  with  skill. 


132  PSALM  LXXIX. 

Psalm  79.    p.  m. 

1  ^THHE  heathen  hosts,   O  God ! 

X.    Have  thy  Possession  seiz'd., 
Thy  sacred  house  defil'd, 
Thy  holy  city  raz'd. 

2  The  bodies  of  thy  saints 

Abroad  unburied  lay, 
Their  flesh  expos'd  to  beasts, 
Or  rav'nous  birds  a  prey. 

3  Their  blood,  like  water,  was 

Around  Jerus'lem  shed; 
And  none  were  left  to  pay, 
The  duties  to  the  dead  : 

4  The  foe  our  small  remains, 

With  loud  reproaches  wound  ; 
And  we  are  made  the  sport 
Of  all  the  nations  round. 

5  How  long  wilt  thou  be  wroth? 

Lord,  must  we  ever  mourn  ? 
And  shall  thy  jealous  rage, 
Like  fire  for  ever  burn  ? 

6  On  lands  that  know  not  thee, 

Thy  heavy  vengeance  show'r : 
Those  kingdoms  let  it  crush, 
That  have  not  own'd  thy  pow'r 

7  Their  hungry  jaws  have  prey'd 

On  Jacob's  chosen  race, 
And  to  a  desert  turn'd, 

Their  fruitful  dwelling  place. 
S  O  think  not  on  our  sins, 
But  speedily  prevent 
The  ruin  of  thy  saints, 
Almost  with  sorrow  spent.. 


PSALM  LXXX.  133 

9  Thy  help,  O  God  impart, 

And  free  our  souls  from  blame, 
So  shall  thy  wondrous  love 
Exalt  thy  glorious  name. 

10  Let  infidels  that  say, 

"  Where  is  the  God  they  boast  ?" 
In  vengeance,  for  thy  saints, 
Perceive  thee  to  their  cost. 

11  Lord,  hear  the  pris'ner's  moans  ! 

Thy  saving  pow'r  extend  ; 
Preserve  them  doom'd  to  die, 
From  their  untimely  end  ! 

12  Those  who  blaspheme  thy  name, 

Do  thou,  O  God,  destroy  ; 
Against  the  nations  round, 
Resistless  pow'r  employ. 

13  As  they  have  us  opprest ; 

So  shall  they  be  repaid, 
With  sorrows  sev'n  times  more 
Than  what  on  us  they  laid. 

14  Thus  we,  thy  humble  flock, 

Shall  ever  praise  thy  name ; 
And  our  unwearied  thanks, 
From  age  to  age  proclaim. 

Psalm  80.   l.  m. 

1   /^\   ISR'EL's  shepherd,  Joseph's  guide, 
V^/   Our  pray'rs  to  thee,  vouchsafe  to  hear; 
That  thou  dost  on  the  cherubs  ride, 
Again  in  solemn  state  appear. 
2  Behold  how  Benjamin  expects, 
With  Ephraim  and  Manasseh  join'd 
In  our  deliv'rance,  the  effects 
Of  thy  resistless  strength  to  fiftdL 


134  PSALM  LXXX. 

3  Do  thou  convert  us,  Lord,  do  thou 
The  lustre  of  thy  face  display  ; 
And  all  the  ills  we  suffer  now, 

Like  scatter'd  clouds,  shall  pass  away. 

4  O  thou,  whom  heav'nly  hosts  obey, 
How  long  shall  thy  fierce  anger  burn  ? 
How  long  thy  sufPring  people  pray, 
And  to  their  pray'rs  have  no  return  ? 

5  When  hungry,  we  are  forc'd  to  drench 
Our  scanty  food  in  floods  of  woe  ; 
When  dry,  our  raging  thirst  we  quench 
With  streams  of  tears  that  largely  flow, 

6  For  us  the  heathen  nations  round, 
As  for  a  common  prey,  contest : 
Our  foes  with  spiteful  joy  abound, 
And  at  our  lost  condition  jest. 

7  Do  thou  convert  us,  Lord,  do  thou 
The  lustre  of  thy  face  display  ; 
And  all  the  ills  we  suffer  now, 

Like  scatter'd  clouds,  shall  pass  away. 

PART   II. 

8  Thou  brought'st  a  vine  from  Egypt's  land 
And,  casting  out  the  heathen  race, 
Didst  plant  it  with  thy  own  right  hand, 
And  firmly  fix'd  it  in  their  place. 

9  Before  it  thou  prepar'dst  the  way, 
And  mad'st  it  take  a  lasting  root ; 
Which,  blest  with  thy  indulgent  ray, 
Oer  all  the  land  did  widely  shoot. 

10  The  hills  were  cover'd  with  its  shade, 
Its  goodly  boughs  did  cedars  seem ; 
Its  branches  to  the  sea  were  spread, 
And  reach'd  to  proud  Euphrates'  stream- 


PSALM  LXXX.  135 

11  Why  then  hast  thou  its  hedge  o'er  thrown, 
Which  thou  had'st  made  so  firm  and  strong? 
Whilst  all  its  grapes,  defenceless  grown, 
Are  pluck'd  by  those  that  pass  along. 

12  See  how  the  bristling  forest  boar 
With  dreadful  fury  lays  it  waste  : 
Hark  how  the  savage  monsters  roar, 
And  to  their  helpless  prey  make  haste 

PART   III. 

13  To  thee,  O  God  of  hosts,  we  pray, 
Thy  wonted  goodness,   Lord,  renew 
From  heav'n  thy  throne  this  vine  survey, 
And  her  sad  state  with  pity  view. 

14  Behold  the  vineyard  made  by  thee, 
Which  thy  right  hand  did  guard  so  long : 
And  keep  that  branch  from  danger  free, 
Which  for  thyself  thou  mad'st  so  strong. 

15  To  wasting  flames  'tis  made  a  prey, 
And  all  its  spreading  boughs  cut  down ; 
At  thy  rebuke  they  soon  decay, 

And  perish  at  thy  dreadful  frown. 

16  Crown  thou  Messiah  with  success, 
By  thy  right  hand  secur'd  from  wrong  : 
The  son  of  man  in  mercy  bless, 
Whom  for  thyself  thou  mad'st  so  strong, 

17  So  shall  we  still  continue  free 
From  whatsoe'er  deserves  thy  blame  ; 
And  if  once  more  reviv'd  by  thee, 
Will  always  praise  thy  holy  name.  - 

18  Do  thou  convert  us,  Lord,   do  thou 
The  lustre  of  thy  face  display  ; 
And  all  the  ills  we  suffer  now, 

Like  scatter'd  clouds  shall  pass  away, 


136  PSALM  LXXXI. 

Psalm  81.    l.  m. 

1  PTHO  God,  our  never  failing  strength, 

X     With  glad  applauses  loudly,  sing 
And  jointly  make  a  cheerful  noise, 
To  Jacob's  great  and  awful  King. 

2  Compose  a  lofty  hymn  of  praise, 
And  touch  your  instruments  of  joy, 
Let  psalteries,  and  pleasant  harps, 
With  warbling  lutes,  your  skill  employ. 

3  Let  trumpets  at  the  great  new  moon, 
Their  animating  voices  raise, 

To  celebrate  the  joyful  time, 

Th'  appointed  solemn  day  of  praise. ' 

4  For  this  a  statute  was  of  old, 
Which  Jacob's  God  himself  decreed, 
To  be  with  pious  care  observ'd, 
For  times  to  come,  by  Israel's  seed. 

5  This  he,  for  a  memorial  fix'd 

In  Joseph,  freed  from  Egypt's  land ; 
Strange  nations  barb'rous  speech  we  heard, 
A  speech  we  could  not  understand. 
(5  "  Your  burden'd  shoulders  I  relieved," 
Thus  seem'd  our  gracious  God  to  say  ; 
"  And  by  my  pow'r  your  servile  hands, 
"  Were  freed  fromlab'ring  in  the  clay." 

7  Your  ancestors  with  wrongs  oppress'd, 
For  timely  help  did  call  on  me  ; 
With  pity  I  their  sufF'rings  saw, 
And  from  their  troubles  set  them  free. 

8  They  sought  for  me,  and  from  the  clouds 
In  awful  thunder  I  reply'd ; 

At  Merebali's  contentious  stream, 
Their  faith  and  duty  both  were  try'd. 


PSALM  LXXXI.  137 

PART   II. 

9  Whilst  I  my  solemn  will  declare, 
Do  thou  my  chosen  people  hear ; 
If  thou,  O  Israel !  to  my  words 
Wilt  careful  lend  a  list'ning  ear. 

10  Then  shall  no  God  besides  myself, 
Within  thy  limits  e'er  be  found. 
Nor  shalt  thou  worship  any  God 
Adored  by  the  nations  round. 

11  The  Lord  thy  God,  am  I  alone, 

Who  brought  thee  out  of  Egypfs  land  ; 
'Tis  I  that  all  thy  just  desires 
Do  still  supply  with  lib'ral  hand. 

12  But  they,  my  chosen  race,  refus'd 
To  hearken  to  my  gracious  voice  ; 
Nor  would  rebellious  Israel's  sons 
Make  me,  with  confidence,  their  choice, 

13  So  I  provok'd,  resign'd  them  up, 
To  every  wicked  lust  a  prey  ; 
And  in  their  own  perverse  designs 
Permitted  them  to  go  astray. 

14  O  that  my  people  wisely  would, 

My  just  and  mild  commandments  heed  ; 
That  Israel  in  my  righteous  ways 
Would  still,  with  pious  care,  proceed, 

15  Then  should  my  heavy  judgments  fall, 
On  all  who  would  their  pow'r  oppose  j 
And  my  avenging  hand  be  rais'd 

To  cut  off  all  their  daring  foes. 

16  Their  enemies,  and  mine,  should  all, 
Before  my  footstool  lowly  bend ; 
But  as  for  them,  their  happy  state 
Should  stand  secure,  nor  know  an  end*> 


138      PSALM  LXXXII,  LXXXIII. 

17  All  parts  with  plenty  should  abound, 
With  fairest  wheat  the  fruitful  field, 
The  barren  clifts  of  craggy  rocks, 
For  them  should  richest  honey  yield. 

Psalm  82.  l.  m. 

1  A    MONG  th'  assemblies  of  the  great 
XI   A  greater  ruler  takes  his  seat ; 
The  God  of  heav'n  as  Judge  surveys 
Those  gods  on  earth  an<J  all  their  ways, 

2  Why  will  ye  frame  oppressive  laws  ? 
Or  why  support  th'  unrighteous  cause  ! 
When  will  ye  once  defend  the  poor, 
That  foes  may  vex  the  saints  no  more  ? 

3  They  know  not,  Lord,  nor  will  they  know 
Dark  are  the  ways  in  which  they  go ; 
Their  name  of  earthly  gods  is  vain, 

For  they  shall  fall  and  die  like  men. 

4  Arise,  O  Lord,  and  let  thy  Son 
Possess  his  universal  throne, 
And  rule  the  nations  wiih  his  rod  \ 
He  is  our  Judge,  and  he  our  God. 


H 


Psalm  83.    l.  m- 

OLD  not  thy  peace,  O  Lord,  our  God ! 
Do  thou  no  longer  silent  be  ; 


Nor  with  consenting  quiet  looks 
Our  dreadful  ruin  calmly  see. 

For,  lo  !  the  tumults  of  thy  foes 
O'er  oil  the  land  begin  to  spread  ; 
And  those  who  hate  thy  saints  and  thee 
Lift  up  with  joy  their  threat'ning  head, 


PSALM  LXXXIII.  139 

3  Against  thy  zealous  people  Lord  I 
They  all  with  treachery,  combine; 
And  to  destroy  thy  chosen  race, 
In  secret  lay  their  close  design. 

4  Come  let  us  cut  them  off,  they  say, 
"  Let  us  their  nation  quite  deface  ; 

Si  That  no  remembrance,  may  henceforth 
"  Remain  of  Israel's  hated  race." 

5  Against  thee,  and  thy  people's  peace, 
Thus  they  consult  with  one  consent, 
And  different  nations  jointly  leagu'd, 
Their  common  spite  and  malice  vent 

6  The  Ishmaelites  that  dwell  in  tents, 
With  warlike  Edom's  forces  join'd, 
And  Moab's  sons,  our  ruin  seek 
With  Hagar's  num'rous  race  combin'd, 

7  Proud  Amnion's  offspring,  Gabel  too 
With  daring  Amelek  conspire  ; 

The  lords  of  Palestine,  and  all 
The  haughty  sons  of  wealthy  Tyre. 
*  All  those  for  their  secure  ally, 

The  strong  Assyrian  king  have  got ; 
Who,  with  a  powVful  army,  means 
To  aid  th'  incestuous  race  of  Lot. 

PART  II. 

9  But  let  such  vengeance  come  to  them, 
As  once  to  wicked  Midian  came 
To  Jabin  and  proud  Sisera, 
At  bloody  Kishon's  fatal  stream  : 
10  When  thy  right  hand  their  num'rous  host, 
Near  Endor,  did  with  fear  confound, 
And  left  their  mangled  carcasses, 
Manure,  to  feed  the  hungry  ground. 


140  PSALM  LXXXIV. 

1 1  Let  all  their  mighty  men  the  fate 
Of  hapless  Zeb  and  Oreb  share  : 
As  Zeba  and  Salmana,  so 
Let  all  their  boasting  princes  fare  ; 

12  Who  with  the  same  design  inspire! 
Thus  with  a  vain  assurance  spake, 
"In  firm  possession,  for  ourselves, 
"  Let  us  by  force  God's  houses  take.'' 

13  To  ruin  let  them  hasten  on, 
Like  wheels  which  downward  swiftly  move 
Or  like  the  chaff,   before  the  wind, 
Let  all  their  scatterd  forces  prove  ; 

14  As  flames  consume  the  wood,  or  heath 
That  on  the  parched  mountains  grows  ; 
So  let  thy  fierce  devouring  wrath, 
With  terror  strike  thy  haughty  foes, 

15  Lord,  shroud  then  faces  with  disgrace, 
And  make  them  own  thy  glorious  name, 
Or  else  confound  those  harden'd  hearts, 
Which,  gentler  means  will  not  reclaim, 

16  So  shall  the  world,  with  one  consent, 
Confess  that  thou,  whose  name  alone, 
Jehovah  is  o'er  all  the  earth, 

Hast  rais'd  thy  just  and  lofty  throne. 

Psalm  84.    l.  m. 

1  TTQW  pleasant,  how  divinely  fair, 
XJL   O  Lord  of  hosts,  thy  dwellings  are  ! 
With  long  desire  my  spirit  faints, 

To  meet  the  assemblies  of  thy  saints, 

2  My  flesh  would  rest  in  thine  abode  ; 
My  panting  heart  cries  out  for  God ; 
My  God  !   my  King  !  why  should  I  be 
So  far  from  all  my  joys  and  thee. 


PSALM  LXXXIV.  141 

3  The  sparrow  chooses  where  to  rest, 
And  for  her  young  provides  her  nest  % 
But  will  my  God  to  sparrow's  grant 
That  pleasure  which  his  children  wTant  ? 

4  Blest  are  the  saints  who  sit  on  high, 
Around  thy  throne  above  the  sky ; 
Thy  brightest  glories  shine  above, 
And  all  their  wrork  is  praise  and  love. 

5  Blest  are  the  souls  who  find  a  place 
Within  the  temple  of  thy  grace  ; 
There  they  behold  thy  gentler  rays, 
And  seek  thy  face  and  learn  thy  praise. 

6  Blest  are  the  men  whose  hearts  are  set 
To  find  the  way  to  Sion's  gate  ; 

God  is  their  strength  ;  and  thro'  the  road 
They  lean  upon  their  helper,  God. 

7  Cheerful  they  walk  with  growing  strength. 
Till  all  shall  meet  in  heav'n  at  length; 

Till  all  before  thy  face  appear, 
And  join  in  nobler  worship  there, 

PART   II. 

6  Great  God  attend  while  Sion  sings 
The  joy  that  from  thy  presence  springs  ; 
To  spend  one  day  with  thee  on  earth, 
Exceeds  a  thousand  days  of  mirth. 

9  Might  I  enjoy  the  meanest  place 
Within  thy  house,  O  God  of  grace, 
Not  tents  of  ease  nor  thrones  of  pow'r 
Should  tempt  my  feet  to  leave  thy  door. 

iO  God  is  our  sun,  he  makes  our  day  ; 
God  is  our  shield,  he  guards  our  way 
From  all  th'  assaults  of  hell  and  sin, 
From  foes  without  and  foes  within. 


14^  PSALM  LXXXV. 

11  All  needful  grace  will  God  bestow, 
And  crown  that  grace  with  glory  too  : 
He  gives  us  all  things,  and  withholds 
No  real  good  from  upright  souls. 

12  O  God,  our  King,  whose  sovereign  sway 
The  glorious  hosts  of  heav'n  obey, 
The  devils  at  thy  presence  flee, 
Blest  is  the  man  that  trusts  in  thee. 

Psalm  85.    l.  m. 

1  X    ORD,  thou  hast  call'd  thy  grace  to  mind, 

1  j  Thou  hast  revers'd  our  heavy  doom  : 
So  God  forgave  when  Isr'el  sinn'd, 
And  brought  his  wand'ring  captives  home. 

2  Thou  hast  begun  to  set  us  free, 
And  made  thy  fiercest  wrath  abate  : 
Now  let  our  hearts  be  turn'd  to  thee, 
And  thy  salvation  be  complete. 

3  Revive  our  dying  graces,  Lord, 
And  let  thy  saints  in  thee  rejoice  ; 
Make  known  thy  truth,  fulfil  thy  word, 
We  wait  for  praise  to  tune  our  voice. 

4  We  wait  to  hear  what  God  will  say  ; 
He'll  speak,  and  give  his  people  peace : 
But  let  them  run  no  more  astray, 
Lest  his  returning  wrath  increase. 

PART   II. 

>  Salvation  is  for  ever  nigh 

The  souls  that  fear  and  trust  the  Lord  ; 

And  grace  descending  from  on  high 

Fresh  hopes  of  glory  shall  afford. 
6  Mercy  and  truth  on  earth  are  met,     [heav'n; 

Since  Christ  the  Lord  came  down  from 


PSALM  LXXXVI.  143 

By  his  obedience  so  complete, 
Justice  is  pleas'd  and  peace  is  giv'n, 

7  Now  truth  and  honour  shall  abound, 
Religion  dwell  on  earth  again, 

And  heav'nly  influence  bless  the  ground' 
In  our  Redeemer's  gentle  reign. 

8  His  righteousness  is  gone  before, 
To  give  us  free  access  to  God : 

Our  wand'ring  feet  shall  stray  no  more, 
But  mark  his  steps  and  keep  the  road. 

Psalm  86.    c.  m. 

1  r  |  ^O  my  complaint,  O  Lord,  my  Ood, 

I       Thy  gracious  ear  incline  ; 
Hear  me  distress'd,  and  destitute 
Of  all  relief  but  thine. 

2  Do  thou,  O  God,  preserve  my  soul, 

That  does  thy  name  adore  : 
Thy  servant  keep,  and  him,  whose  trust 
Relies  on  thee,  restore. 

3  To  me,  who  daily  thee  invoke, 

Thy  mercy,  Lord,  extend; 
Refresh  thy  servant's  soul,  whose  hopes 
On  thee  alone  depend. 

4  Thou,  Lord,  art  good ;  not  only  good.. 
But  prompt  to  pardon  too  : 

Of  plenteous  mercy  to  all  those 
Who  for  thy  mercy  sue. 

To  my  repeated  humble  prayV, 

O  Lord,:  attentive  be  ; 
When  troubled,  I  on  thee  will  call, 

For  thou  wiit  answer  me. 

Among  the  gods  there's  none  like  thee^ 
O  Lord,  alone  divine ! 


144  PSALM  LXXXVI. 

To  thee  as  much  inferior  they, 
As  are  their  works  to  thine. 

7  Therefore  their  great  Creator  thee 

The  nations  shall  adore  ; 
Their  long  misguided  pray'rs  and  praise 
To  thy  bless'd  name  restore. 

8  All  shall  confess  thee  great,  and  great 

The  wonders  thou  hast  done  ; 
Confess  thee  God,  the  God  supreme. 
Confess  thee  God  alone. 

PART  II.    p.  M. 

9  Teach  me,  O  Lord,  thy  sacred  way, 

That  from  thy  truth  1  may  not  stray ; 
To  me  thy  grace  impart, 

Unite  my  wand'ring  heart 
To  fear,  continually  thy  name  : 

Thy  praise,  my  God,  I  will  proclaim. 
And  with  a  soul  sincere 

Thee  constantly  revere. 

10  Thy  boundless  mercy  who  can  tell, 

For  thou  hast  sav'd  my  soul  from  hell, 
And  when  I  call'd  on  thee, 

Thy  goodness  set  me  free  : 
The  sons  of  pride  against  me  rise, 

Not  setting  thee  before  their  eyes  ; 
And  with  a  wicked  strife, 

Seek  to  destroy  my  life. 

1 1  But  thou  didst  thy  assistance  bring, 

Of  truth  thou  everlasting  spring  ; 
Thy  patience  and  thy  love, 

Lord,  thou  shalt  ne'er  remove  : 
Turn  thee,  O  God,  some  signal  show. 

And  let  all  those  who  hate  me,,  know,. 
That  thou  wilt  pow'r  extend, 

Thy  servants  to  defend. 


PSALM  LXXXYIIL  145 

Psalm  87.   l.  m. 

1  g^i  OD  in  his  earthly  temple  lays 
V_X  Foundation  for  his  heav'nly  praise; 

He  likes  the  tents  of  Jacob  well, 
But  still  in  Sion  loves  to  dwell. 

2  His  mercy  visits  ev'ry  house 

That  pay  their  night  and  morning  vows ; 
But  makes  a  more  delightful  stay, 
Where  churches  meet  to  praise  and  pray 

3  What  glories  were  describ'd  of  old! 
What  wonders  are  in  Sion  told! 
Thou  city  of  our  God  below, 

Thy  fame  shall  Tyre  and  Egypt  know, 

f$  Egypt  and  Tyre,  and  Greek  and  Jew. 
Shall  there  begin  their  lives  anew : 
Angels  and  men  shall  join  to  sing 
The  hill  where  living  waters  spring. 

5  When  God  makes  up  his  last  account 
Of  natives  in  his  holy  mount, 
''Twill  be  an  honour  to  appear 
As  one  new  born  and  nourish'd  there 


Psalm  88.    l 


Hi 


TO  thee,  my  God  and  Saviour,  I 
By  day  and  night  address  my  cry ; 
Vouchsafe  my  mournful  voice  to  hear 
To  my  distress  incline  thine  ear. 
For  seas  of  trouble  me  invade  ; 
My  soul  draws  nigh  to  death's  cold  shade, 
Like  one  whose  strength  and  hopes  are  fled) 
They  number  me  among  the  dead, 

O     2 


146  PSALM  LXXXVIII. 

3  Like  those  who  shrouded  in  the  grave., 
From  thee  no  more  remembrance  have  : 
Cast  off  from  thy  sustaining  care, 
Down  to  the  confines  of  despair. 

4  Thy  wrath  has  hard  upon  me  lain, 
Afflicting  me  with  restless  pain : 
Me  all  thy  mountain  waves  have  pres£ 
Too  weak  alas  !  to  bear  the  least. 

5  Remov'd  from  friends,  I  sigh  alone, 
In  a  loath'd  dungeon  laid,  where  none 
A  visit  will  vouchsafe  to  me, 
Confin'd,  past  hopes  of  liberty. 

6  My  eyes  from  weeping  never  cease  ; 
They  waste,  but  still  my  griefs  increase  : 
Yet  daily,  Lord,  to  thee  I've  pray'd 
With  outstretched  hands  invok'd  thy  aid. 

7  Wilt  thou  by  miracle  revive 

The  dead,  whom  thou  forsook'st  alive  ? 
From  death  restore,  thy  praise  to  sing, 
Whom  thou  from  prison  would'st  not  bring  ? 
3  Shall  the  mute  grave  thy  love  confess  ? 
A  mouldering  tomb  thy  faithfulness  ? 
Thy  truth  and  pow'r  renown  obtain, 
Where  darkness  and  oblivion  reign? 

9  To  thee,  O  Lord,  I  cry,  forlorn, 
My  prayer  prevents  the  early  morn, 
Why  hast  thou,  Lord,  my  soul  forsook, 
Is  or  once  vouchsafed  a  gracious  look. 
10  Prevailing  sorrows  bear  me  down, 

Which  from  my  youth  with  me  have  grown; 
Thy  terrors  past  distract  my  mind, 
And  fears  of  blacker  davs  behind. 


PSALM  LXXXIX.  147 

11  Thy  wrath  hath  burst  upon  my  head, 
Thy  terrors  fill  my  soul  with  dread : 
Environ'd  as  with  waves  combined,    s 
And  for  a  general  deluge  join'd. 

12  My  lovers,  friends,  familiars,  all 
Remov'd  from  sight,  and  out  of  call ; 
To  dark  oblivion  all  rctir'd, 

Dead,  or  at  least  to  me  expir'd. 

Psalm  89.    l.  m. 

1  HP^HY  mercies,  Lord,  shali  be  my  song,, 

X     My  song  on  them  shall  ever  dwell ; 
To  ages  yet  unborn  my  tongue 
Thy  never-failing  truth  shali  tell. 

2  I  have  affirm 'd  and  still  maintain, 
Thy  mercy  shall  for  ever  last ; 

Thy  truth,  that  does  the  heavens  sustain, 
Like  them  shall  stand  for  ever  fast. 

3  Thus  spak'st  thou  by  thy  prophet's  voice  :: 
"  With  David  I  a  league  have  made  ; 

"  To  him,  my  servant,  and  my  choice, 
"  By  solemn  oath  this  grant  convey'd  : 

4  '•  While  earth,  and  seas,  and  skies  endure^, 
"  Thy  seed  shall  in  my  sight  remain  ; 

"  To  them  thy  throne  1  will  •  nsure, 
"  They  shali  to  endless  ages  reign. " 

5  For  such  stupendous  truth  and  love 
Both  heaven  and  earth  just  praises  owe  ; 
By  choirs  of  angels  sung  above, 

And  by  assembled  saints  below. 

6  What  seraph  of  celestial  birth 

Xp  i  ic    vith  Israel's  Gcd  shali  dare? 
G.  who  among  the  gods  of  earth 
Witli'oui  aim  Lord  compare. 


148  PSALM  LXXXIX. 

7  With  rev'rence  and  religious  dread, 
His  saints  should  to  his  temple  press  ; 
His  fear  thro'  all  their  hearts  should  spread^ 
Who  his  almighty  name  confess. 

8  Lord  God  of  armies,  who  can  boast 

Of  strength  or  power  like  thine  renown'd  ? 

Of  such  a  num'rous  faithful  host 

As  that  which  doth  thy  throne  surround  ? 

9  Thou  dost  the  lawless  sea  control, 
And  change  the  prospect  of  the  deep, 
Thou  mak'st  the  sleeping  billows  roll, 
Thou  mak'st  the  rolling  billows  sleep. 

10  Thou  brak'st  in  pieces  Rahab's  pride, 
And  didst  oppressing  power  disarm  ; 
Thy  scatter'd  foes  have  dearly  try'd 
The  force  of  thy  resistless  arm. 

1 1  In  thee  the  sovereign  right  remains 

Of  earth  and  heaven  ;  thee,  Lord,  alone, 
The  world,  and  all  that  it  contains, 
Their  Maker  and  Preserver  own. 

12  The  poles  on  which  the  globe  doth  rest 
Were  form'd  by  thy  creating  voice  ; 
Tabor  and  Hermon,  east  and  west, 

In  thy  sustaining  power  rejoice. 

13  Thy  arm  is  mighty,  strong  thy  hand, 
Yet,  Lord,  thou  dost  with  justice  reign  ; 
Possess'd  of  absolute  command, 
Thou  truth  and  mercy  dost  maintain.. 

14  Happy,  thrice  happy,  they  who  hear 
Thy  sacred  trumpet's  joyful  sound  : 
Who  may  at  festivals  appear, 

With  thy  most  glorious  presence  crown'd. 

15  Thy  saints  shall  always  be  o'erjoy'd, 
Who  on  thy  sacred  name  rely  ; 


PSALM  LXXXIX.  149 

And,  in  thy  righteousness  employ'd, 
Above  their  foes  be  rais'd  on  high. 

16  For  in  thy  strength  they  shall  advance, 
Whose  conquests  from  thy  favour  spring ; 
The  Lord  of  hosts  is  our  defence, 

And  Israel's  God  our  Israel's  King. 

PART   II. 

17  Thus  spak'st  thou  by  thy  prophet's  voice-; 
"  A  mighty  champion  I  will  send  ; 

11  From  Judah's  tribe  have  I  made  choice 
"  Of  one  who  shall  the  rest  defend. 

18  "  My  servant  David  I  have  found, 
"  With  holy  oil  anointed  him  ; 

"  Him  shall  the  hand  support  that  crown'd-? 
"  And  guard  that  gave  the  diadem. 

19  "  No  prince  from  him  shall  tribute  force, 
"  No  son  of  strife  shall  him  annoy  ; 

"  His  spiteful  foes  I  will  disperse, 
"  And  them  before  his  face  destroy. 

20  "  My  truth  and  grace  shall  him  sustain  ; 
"  His  armies,  in  well-order'd  ranks, 

"  Shall  conquer  from  the  Tyrian  main 
"  To  Tygris'  and  Euphrates'  banks. 

21  "  Me  for  his  Father  he  shall  take, 
"  His  God  and  rock  of  safety  call ; 

"  Him  I  my  first-born  son  will  make, 
"  And  earthly  kings  his  subjects  all. 

22  "  To  him  my  mercy  I'll  secure, 

"  My  cov'nant  make  for  ever  fast ; 

"  His  seed  for  ever  shall  endure, 

M  His  throne,  till  heaven  dissolve,  shall  last- 


150  PSALM  LXXXIX. 

23  "  But  if  his  heirs  my  law  forsake, 
"  And  from  my  sacred  precepts  stray  ; 
"  If  they  my  righteous  statutes  break, 
"  Nor  strictly  my  commands  obey. 

24  *'  Their  sins  I'll  visit  with  a  rod, 
"  And  for  their  folly  make  them  smart ; 
"  Yet  will  not  cease  to  be  their  God, 
"  Nor  from  my  truth,  lik«  them,  depart, 

25  "  My  cov'nant  I  will  ne'er  revoke, 
"  But  in  remembrance  fast  retain  ; 

"  The  tiling  that  once  my  lips  have  spoke, 
"  Shall  in  eternal  force  remain. 

26  "  Once  have  I  sworn,  but  once  for  all, 
"  And  made  my  holiness  the  tie, 
V*  That  I  my  grant  will  ne'er  recal, 
"  Nor  to  my  servant  David  lie. 

27  "  Whose  throne  and  race  the  constant  sun 
"  Shall  like  his  course  establish'd  see  : 
"  Of  this  my  oath,  revolving  moon, 
"  In  heaven  my  faithful  witness  be." 

28  Such  was  thy  gracious  promise,  Lord ; 
But  thou  hast  now  our  tribes  forsook  : 
Thy  own  anointed  hast  abhorr'd, 
And  turn'd  on  him  thy  wrathful  look. 

29  Thou  seemest  to  have  renderd  void 
The  cov  nant  with  thy  servant  made  ; 
Thou  hast  his  dignity  destroy'd, 
And  in  the  dust  his  honour  laid. 

30  Of  strong  holds  thou  hast  him  bereft, 
And  brought  his  bulwarks  to  decay ; 
His  frontier- coasts  deicnodess  left, 
A  public  scorn,  and  common  prey 


PSALM  LXXXIX.  151 

31  His  ruin  does  glad  triumphs  yield 
To  foes  advanc'd  by  thee  to  might ; 
Thou  hast  his  conqu'ring  sword  unsteel'd, 
His  valour  turn'd  to  shameful  flight. 

32  His  glory  is  to  darkness  fled, 

His  throne  is  levell'd  with  the  ground ; 

His  youth  to  wretched  bondage  led, 

With  shame  o'er whelm'd, and  sorrow  drown'd- 

33  How  long  shall  we  thy  absence  mourn  ? 
Wilt  thou  for  ever,  Lord,  retire  ? 
Shall  thy  consuming  anger  burn  ? 
Till  that  and  we  at  once  expire  ? 

54  Consider,  Lord,  how  short  a  space 
Thou  dost  for  mortal  life  ordain ; 
No  method  to  prolong  the  race, 
But  loading  it  with  grief  and  pain, 

35  What  man  is  he  that  can  control 
Death's  strict  unalterable  doom  ? 
Or  rescue  from  the  grave  his  soul, 
The  grave  that  must  mankind  entomb, 

36  Lord,  where's  thy  love,  thy  boundless  grace; 
The  oath  to  which  thy  truth  did  seal, 
Consign'd  to  David  and  his  race, 

The  grant  which  time  should  ne'er  repeal, 

37  See  how  thy  servants  treated  are 
With  infamy,  reproach,  and  spite ; 
Which  in  my  silent  breast  I  bear, 
From  nations,  of  licentious  might. 

38  How  they,  reproaching  thy  great  name, 
Have  made  thy  servants'  hope  their  jest ; 
Yet  thy  just  praises  we'll  proclaim, 
And  sing  amen  "  the  Lord  be  blest," 


152  PSALM  XC. 

Psalm  90.   c.  m. 

1  /^\UR  God,  our  help  in  ages  past. 
\^/     Our  hope  for  years  to  come, 
Our  shelter  from  the  stormy  blast, 

And  our  eternal  home. 

2  Beneath  the  shadow  of  thy  throne 

Thy  saints  have  dwelt  secure ; 
Sufficient  is  thine  arm  alone, 
And  my  defence  is  sure. 

3  Before  the  hills  in  order  stood, 

Or  earth  received  her  frame, 
From  everlasting  thou  art  God, 
To  endless  years  the  same. 

4  Thy  word  commands  our  flesh  to  dust, 

"  Return,  ye  sons  of  men  ;" 
All  nations  rose  from  earth  at  first. 
And  turn  to  earth  again. 

5  A  thousand  ages  in  thy  sight 

Are  like  an  evening  gone  ; 
Short  as  the  watch  that  ends  the  night 
Before  the  rising  dawn. 

6  The  busy  tribes  of  flesh  and  blood, 

With  all  their  lives  and  cares, 
Are  carried  downwards  by  the  flood,, 
And  lost  in  following  years. 

7  Time,  like  an  ever-rolling  stream, 

Bears  all  its  sons  away, 
They  fly  forgotten,  as  a  dream 
Dies  at  the  op'ning  day. 

8  Like  flow'ry  fields  the  nations  stand 

Pleas'd  with  the  morning  light ; 
The  flowers  beneath  the  mower's  hand 
Lie  with'ring  ere  'tis  night. 


PSALM  XC.  153 

9  Our  God,  our  help  in  ages  past, 
Our  hope  for  years  to  come, 
Be  thou  our  guard  while  troubles  last, 
And  our  eternal  home. 

PART  ii. 

10  Lord,  if  thine  eyes  survey  our  faults, 

And  justice  grow  severe, 
Thy  dreadful  wrath  exceeds  our  thoughts. 
And  burns  beyond  our  fear. 

11  Thine  anger  turns  our  frame  to  dust; 

By  one  offence  to  thee, 
Adam,  with  all  his  sons,  have  lost 
Their  immortality.  I 

12  Life,  like  a  vain  amusement  flies, 

A  fable  or  a  song  ; 
By  swift  degrees  our  nature  dies, 
Nor  can  our  joys  be  long. 

13  'Tis  but  a  few  whose  days  amount 

To  three  score  years  and  ten ; 
And  all  beyond  that  short  account, 
Is  sorrow,  toil,  and  pain. 

14  Our  vitals  with  laborious  strife 

Bear  up  the  crazy  load, 
And  drag  these  poor  remains  of  life 
Along  the  tiresome  road. 

15  Almighty  God,  reveal  thy  love, 

And  not  thy  wrath  alone  : 
Oh  let  our  sweet  experience  prove 
The  mercies  of  thy  throne. 

16  Our  souls  would  learn  the  heavenly  art 

T'  improve  the  hours  we  have  ; 
That  we  may  act  the  wiser  part, 
And  live  beyond  the  grave. 


154  PSALM  XCI. 

PART   III. 

17  Return,  O  God  of  love,  return  ; 

Earth  is  a  tiresome  place  : 
How  long  shall  we  thy  children  mourn 
Our  absence  from  thy  face  ? 

18  Let  heaven  succeed  our  painful  years. 

Let  sin  and  sorrow  cease, 

And  in  proportion  to  our  tears 

So  make  our  joys  increase. 

19  Thy  wonders  to  thy  servants  show, 

Make  thy  own  work  complete  ; 
Then  shall  our  souls  thy  glory  know, 
And  own  thy  love  was  great. 

20  Then  shall  we  shine  before  thy  throne 

In  all  thy  beauty,  Lord  : 
And  the  poor  service  we  have  done 
Meet  a  divine  reward. 

Psalm  91.    l.  m. 

1  XT  E  that  hath  made  his  refuge  God, 
J[  JL   Shall  find  a  most  secure  abode  ; 
Shall  walk  ail  day  beneath  his  shade, 
And  there  at  night  shall  rest  his  head. 

2  Then  will  I  say,  "  My  God,  thy  power 
"  Shall  be  my  fortress  and  my  tower ; 

"  I  that  am  form'd  of  feeble  dust, 

"  Make  thine  almighty  arm  my  trust." 

3  Thrice  happy  man  !  thy  Maker's  care 
Shall  keep  thee  from  the  fowler's  snare ; 
From  satan's  wiles;  who  still  betrays 
Unguarded  souls  a  thousand  ways. 

■i  Just  as  a  hen  protects  her  brood, 

From  birds  of  prey  that  seek  their  blood. 


PSALM  XCL  1^ 

The  Lord  his  faithful  saints  shall  guard, 
And  endless  life  be  their  reward. 

5  If  burning  beams  of  noon  eonspire 
To  dart  a  pestilential  fire  ; 

God  is  their  life,  his  wings  are  spread 
To  shield  them  with  an  healthful  shade. 

6  If  vapours  with  malignant  breath 

Rise  thick,  and  scatter  midnight  death, 
Israel  is  safe  :  the  poison'd  air 
Grows  pure,  if  Israel's  God  be  there. 

7  What  though  a  thousand  at  thy  side, 
Around  thy  path  ten  thousand  died, 
Thy  God  his  chosen  people  saves 
Amongst  the  dead,  amidst  the  graves, 

8  So  when  he  sent  his  Angel  down 
To  make  his  wrath  in  Egypt  known. 
And  slew  their  sons,  his  careful  eye. 
Past  all  the  doors  of  Jacob  by. 

9  But  if  the  fire,  or  plague,  or  sword. 
Receive  commission  from  the  Lord, 
To  strike  hi  s  saints  among  the  rest, 
Their  very  pains  and  deaths  are  blest. 

10  The  sword,  the  pestilence,  or  fire 
Shall  but  fulfil  their  best  desire  : 
F*om  sins  and  sorrows  set  them  free, 
And  bring  thy  children,  Lord,  to  thee, 

PART  II.    c.  M. 

1 1  Ye  sons  of  men,  a  feeble  race, 

Expos'd  to  ev'ry  snare, 
Come  make  the  Lord  your  dwellingiplace; 
And  try,  and  trust  his  care. 

12  No  ill  shall  enter  where  you  dwell ; 

Or  if  the  plague  come  nigh,, 


156  PSALM  XCI1. 

And  sweep  the  wicked  down  to  hell, 
'Twill  raise  the  saints  on  high. 

13  He'll  give  his  angels  charge  to  keep 

Your  feet  in  all  their  ways  ; 
To  watch  your  pillow  while  you  sleep, 
And  guard  your  happy  days. 

14  Their  hands  shall  bear  you  lest  you  fall 

And  dash  against  the  stones  ; 
Are  they  not  servants  at  his  call, 
And  sent  t'  attend  his  sons  ? 

15  Adders  and  lions  ye  shall  tread ; 

The  tempter's  wiles  defeat : 
He  that  hath  broke  the  serpent's  head 
Puts  him  beneath  your  feet. 

16  "  Because  on  me  they  set  their  love, 

**  I'll  save  them,"  saith  the  Lord  ; 
"  I'll  bear  their  joyful  souls  above, 
"  Destruction  and  the  sword. 

17  "  My  grace  shall  answer  when  they  call, 

"  In  trouble  I'll  be  nigh  ; 
"My  power  shall  help  them  when  they  fall, 
"  And  raise  them  when  they  die. 

18  "  Those  that  on  earth  my  name  have  known, 

"  I'll  honour  them  in  heaven  ; 
"  There  my  salvation  shall  be  shown, 
"  And  endless  life  be  given." 

Psalm  92.   l.  m. 

1  Q  WEET  is  the  work,  my  God,  my  King, 
1^5  To  praise  thy  name  give  thanks  and  sing, 
To  shew  thy  love  by  morning  light, 

And  talk  of  all  thy  truth  at  night. 

2  Sweet  is  the  day  of  sacred  rest, 

No  mortal  care  shall  seize  my  breast, 


PSALM  XCI1.  157 

Oh  may  my  heart  in  tune  be  found, 
Like  David's  harp  of  solemn  sound. 

3  Mv  heart  shall  triumph  in  my  Lord, 
And  bless  his  works  and  bless  his  word, 
Thy  works  of  grace  how  bright  they  shine ! 
How  deep  thy  counsels  !  how  divine  ! 

4  Fools  never  raise  their  thoughts  so  high  ; 
Like  brutes  they  live,  like  brutes  they  die  ,• 
Like  grass  they  nourish,  till  thy  breath 
Blasts  them*  in  everlasting  death. 

5  But  I  shall  share  a  glorious  part, 
When  grace  hath  well  refin'd  my  heart, 
And  fresh  supplies  of  joy  are  shed 
Like  holy  oil  to  cheer  my  head. 

6  Sin  (my  worst  enemy  before) 

SIu  L  vex  my  eyes  and  ears  no  more ; 
My  inward  foes  shall  all  be  slain, 
Nor  satan  break  my  peace  again. 

7  Then  shall  I  see,  and  hear,  and  know 
All  I  desir'd,  or  wish'd  below  ; 
And  ev'ry  power  find  sweet  employ 
In  that  eternal  world  of  joy. 

PAUT   II. 

S  Lord,  'tis  a  pleasant  thing  to  stand 
In  gardens  planted  by  thy  hand  ; 
Let  me  within  thy  courts  be  seen 
Like  a  young  cedar  fresh  and  green. 

9  There  grow  thy  saints  in  faith  and  love, 
Blest  with  thine  influence  from  above  ; 
Not  Lebanon  with  all  its  trees 
Yields  such  a  comely  sight  as  these 

P2 


158  PSALM  XCIV. 

10  The  plants  of  grace  shall  ever  live  : 
(Nature  decays,  but  grace  must  thrive) 
Time  that  doth  all  things  else  impair, 
Still  makes  them  flourish  strong  and  fair 

11  Laden  with  fruits  of  age  they  shew, 
The  Lord  is  holy,  just  and  true  ; 
None  that  attend  his  gates  shall  find 
A  God  unfaithful  or  unkind. 

Psalm  93.  l.  m. 

.1   T  T  T ITH  glory  clad,  with  strength  array'd, 
V  V     The  Lord,  that  o'er  all  nature  reigns, 
The  world's  foundations  strongly  laid, 
And  the  vast  fabric  still  sustains. 

2  How  surely  'stablish'd  is  thy  throne, 
Which  shall  no  change  or  period  see  \ 
For  thou,  O  Lord,  and  thou  alone, 
Art  God  from  all  eternity. 

3  The  floods,  O  Lord,  lift  up  their  voice , 
And  toss  the  troubled  waves  on  high  ; 
But  God  above  can  still  their  noise, 
And  make  the  angry  sea  comply. 

4  Thy  promise,  Lord,  is  ever  sure  ; 

And  they  that  in  thy  house  would  dwell, 
Though  grace  alone  can  them  secure, 
Must  still  in  holiness  excel. 

Psalm  94.   c.  m. 

I   dT*\  GOD  !  to  whom  revenge  belongs, 
V_^     Proclaim  thy  wrath  aloud  ; 
Let  sovereign  power  redress  our  wrongs, 
Let  justice  smite  the  proud. 


PSALM  XCIV.  159 

2  They  say,  "  the  Lord  nor  sees,  nor  hears ;" 
When  will  the  vain  be  wise  ? 
Can  he  be  deaf,  who  form'd  their  ears  f 
Or  blind,  who  made  their  eyes  ? 

He  knows  their  impious  thoughts  are  vain, 

And  they  shall  feel  his  power  : 
His  wrath  shall  pierce  their  souls  with  pain 

In  some  surprising  hour. 

4  But  if  my  saints  deserve  rebuke, 

Thou  hast  a  gentle  rod  ; 
Thy  providence,  thy  sacred  book, 
Shall  make  them  know  their  God. 

5  Blest  is  the  man  thy  hands  chastise, 

And  to  his  duty  draw  ; 
Thy  scourges  make  thy  children  wise 
When  they  forget  thy  law. 

6  But  God  will  ne'er  cast  off  his  saints, 

Nor  his  own  promise  break  : 
He  pardons  his  inheritance 
For  their  Redeemer's  sake. 

PART   II. 

7  Who  will  arise  and  plead  my  right 

Against  my  num'rous  foes  ? 
While  earth  and  hell  their  force  unite> 
And  all  my  hope  oppose. 

8  Had  not  the  Lord,  my  rock,  my  help? 

Sustain'd  my  fainting  head, 

My  life  had  now  in  silence  dwelt, 

My  soul  amongst  the  dead. 

9  Alas  !  my  sliding  feet !   I  cry'd, 

Thy  promise  bore  me  up  ; 
Thy  grace  stood  constant  by  my  side. 
And  rais'd  my  sinking  hope. 


160  PSALM  XCV. 

10  While  multitudes  of  mournful  thoughts 

Within  my  bosom  roll, 
Thy  boundless  love  forgive  my  faults, 
Thy  comforts  cheer  my  soul. 

11  Powers  of  iniquity  may  rise, 

And  frame  pernicious  laws  ; 
But  God  my  refuge  rules  the  skies. 
He  will  defend  my  cause, 

12  Let  malice  vent  her  rage  aloud, 

Let  bold  blasphemers  scoff; 
The  Lord  our  God  shall  judge  the  proud? 
And  cut  the  sinners  off. 

Psalm  95.    l.  m. 

1  y^\  COME,  loud  anthems  let  us  sing, 
V^/  Loud  thanks  to  our  almighty  King : 
For  we  our  voices  high  should  raise, 
When  our  salvation's  rock  we  praise. 

2  Into  his  presence  let  us  haste, 

To  thank  him  for  his  favours  past ; 
To  him  address,  in  joyful  songs, 
The  praise  that  to  his  name  belongs. 

3  For  God  the  Lord,  enthron'd  in  state, 
Is  with  unrivall'd  glory  great ; 

A  King  superior  far  to  all 

Whom  gods  the  heathens  falsely  call. 

4  The  depths  of  earth  are  in  his  hand, 
Her  secret  wealth  at  his  command  : 
The  strength  of  hills  that  threat  the  skies 
Subjected  to  his  empire  lies. 

5  The  rolling  ocean's  vast  abyss 

By  the  same  sovereign  right  is  his  ; 
'Tis  mov'd  by  his  almighty  hand 
That  form'd  and  nVd  the  "solid  land. 


PSALM  XCVI.  161 

6  O  let  us  to  his  courts  repair, 
And  bow  with  adoration  there  ; 
With  humble  souls  adore  his  grace, 
And  kneel  before  our  Maker's  face. 

7  For  he's  our  God,  our  Shepherd  he  ; 
His  flock  and  pasture- sheep  are  we : 

If  then  you'll  (like  his  flock)  draw  near, 
To-day  if  ye  his  voice  will  hear. 

8  Let  not  your  harden'd  hearts  renew 
Your  fathers'  crimes  and  judgments  too  ; 
Nor  here  provoke  my  wrath,  as  they 

In  desart  plains  of  Meribah. 

9  When  through  the  wilderness  they  mov'dj 
And  me  with  fresh  temptations  prov'd  : 
They  still,  through  unbelief,  rebell'd, 
While  they  my  wondrous  works  beheld, 

0  They  forty  years  my  p?aience  griev'd, 
Though  daily  I  their  wants  reliev'd  ; 
Then — 'Tis  a  faithless  race,  I  said, 
Whose  heart  from  me  has  always  stray'd. 

1  They  ne'er  will  tread  my  righteous  path : 
Therefore  to  them,  in  settled  wrath, 
Since  they  despis'd  my  rest,  I  swear, 
That  they  should  never  enter  there. 

Psalm  96.    l.  m. 

1  O  ING  to  the  Lord,  a  new  made  song  ; 
^   Let  earth  in  one  assembled  throng, 
Her  common  patron's  praise  resound, 
Who  us  hath  with  salvation  crowird. 

2  Sing  to  the  Lord,  and  bless  his  name, 
From  day  to  day  his  praise  proclaim  ; 
To  heathen  lands  his  fame  rehearse, 
His  wonders  to  the  universe. 


162  PSALM  XCVL 

3  He's  great,  and  greatly  to  be  prais'd  ; 
In  majesty  and  glory  rais'd, 
Above  all  other  deities, 

He  only  rules  who  made  the  skies. 

4  With  majesty  and  honour  crown'd, 
Beauty  and  strength  his  throne  surround ; 
But  pageantry  and  idols  all 

Are  they  whom  gods  the  heathen  call. 

5  Let  worship  be  to  him  restor'd, 

By  you  who  have  false  gods  ador'd  ; 
Ascribe  due  honours  to  his  name, 
That  honour  he  alone  can  claim. 

6  Peace -offerings  at  his  altar  lay, 
Before  his  throne  your  homage  pay  ; 
To  worship  at  his  sacred  court, 
Let  all  the  trembling  world  resort. 

7  Proclaim  aloud,  Jehovah  reigns, 
Whose  power  the  universe  sustains  ; 
Let  therefore  heaven  new  joys  confess. 
And  heavenly  rapture  earth  express. 

8  He  banish'd  justice  shall  restore, 
Its  loud  applause  let  ocean  roar ; 
Its  mute  inhabitants  rejoice, 
And  for  this  triumph  find  a  voice, 

9  For  joy  let  fertile  valleys  sing, 

The  cheerful  groves  their  tribute  bring  ; 
Let  all  that  live  with  songs  awake, 
Their  sweetest  melody  to  make  : 

10  Before  the  Lord,  who  comes  to  bless 
And  shew  the  world  his  righteousness  ; 
From  heaven,  to  judge  the  earth  he's  come. 
With  justice  to  reward  and  doom. 


PSALM  XCVII.  163 

Psalm  97.  l.  m. 

1  *"      T  E  reigns ;  the  Lord,  the  Saviour  reigns  t 

[JL  Praise  him  in  evangelic  strains  : 
Let  the  whole  earth  in  songs  rejoice, 
And  distant  islands  join  their  voice. 

2  Deep  are  his  counsels  and  unknown ; 
But  grace  and  truth  support  his  throne  : 
Tho'  gloomy  clouds  his  ways  surround ; 
Justice  is  their  eternal  ground. 

3  In  robes  of  judgment,  lo  !  he  comes, 
Shakes  the  wide  earth  and  cleaves  the  tombs  ; 
Before  him  burns  devouring  fire, 

The  mountains  melt,  the  seas  retire. 

4  His  enemies  with  sore  dismay, 

Fly  from  the  sight  and  shun  the  day  ; 
Then  lift  your  heads,  ye  saints,  on  high, 
And  sing,  for  your  redemption's  nigh. 

PART   II. 

5  The  Lord  is  come  ;  the  heav'ns  proclaim 
His  birth  ;  the  nations  learn  his  name  ; 
An  unknown  star  directs  the  road 

Of  eastern  sages  to  their  God. 

6  All  ye  bright  armies  of  thfc  skies, 
Go,  worship  w^here  the  Saviour  lies ; 
Angels  and  kings  before  him  bow, 
Those  gods  on  high,  and  gods  below. 

t?  Let  idols  totter  to  the  ground, 

And  their  own  worshippers  confound : 

But  Sion  shall  his  glories  sing, 

And  earth  confess  her  sovereign  king. 


164  PSALM  XCVIII. 

PART   III. 

8  Th'  Almighty  reigns  exalted  high 
O'er  all  the  earth,  o'er  all  the  sky  ; 
Tho'  clouds  and  darkness  veil  his  feet> 
His  dwelling  is  the  mercy -seat. 

9  O  ye  that  love  his  holy  name  ; 
Hate  every  work  of  sin  and  shame ; 
He  guards  the  souls  of  all  his  friends, 
And  from  the  snares  of  hell  defends. 

10  Immortal  light,  and  joys  unknown, 
Are  for  the  saints  in  darkness  sown; 
Those  glorious  seeds  shall  spring  and  rise, 
And  the  bright  harvest  bless  our  eyes. 

1 1  Rejoice  ye  righteous,  and  record 
The  sacred  honours  of  the  Lord : 
None  but  the  soul  that  feels  his  grace 
Can  triumph  in  his  holiness. 

Psalm  98.   c.  m. 

1  f  I  ^  O  our  almighty  Maker,  God, 

JL       New  honours  be  address'd : 
His    great  salvation  shines  abroad; 
And  makes  the  nations  blest. 

2  To  Abraam  #rst  he  spoke  the  word, 

And  taught  his  numerous  race  ; 
The  Gentiles  own  him  sovereign  Lord, 
And  learn  to  trust  his  grace. 

3  Let  the  whole  earth  his  love  proclaim 

With  all  her  different  tongues  ; 
And  spread  the  honour  of  his  name 
In  melody  and  songs. 

4  Joy  to  the  world,  the  Lord  is  come, 

Let  earth  receive  her  King ; 


PSALM  XCIX.  165 

Let  ev'ry  heart  prepare  him  room, 
And  heaven  and  nature  sing. 

5  Joy  to  the  earth  the  Saviour  reigns, 

Let  men  their  songs  employ  ; 
While  fields  and  floods,  rocks,  hills  and  plains, 
Repeat  the  sounding  joy. 

6  No  more  let  sins  and  sorrows  grow, 

Nor  thorns  infest  the  ground ; 
He  comes  to  make  his  blessings  flow, 
Far  as  the  curse  is  found. 

7  He  rules  the  world  with  truth  and  grace, 

And  makes  the  nations  prove 
The  glories  of  his  righteousness, 
And  wonders  of  his  love. 

Psalm  99.    p.  m. 

1  TEHOVAH  reigns,  let  all 

eJ      The  guilty  nations  quake  ; 
On  cherub's  wings  he  sits, 

Let  earth's  foundations  shake  : 
In  Sion  he  is  great, 

Above  all  people  high  ; 
O  praise  his  holy  name, 

Who  dwells  above  the  sky, 

In  awful  majesty. 

2  For  truth  and  justice  still 

Of  strength  and  power  take  place  v 
His  righteous  judgments  are 

Dispens'd  to  Jacob's  race  : 
Therefore  exalt  the  Lord, 

Before  his  footstool  fall 
In  adoration  low  ; 

And  with  his  power,  let  all 

His  holiness  extol. 


166  PSALM  C. 

3  Moses  and  Aaron  thus, 

Amongst  his  priests  ador'd  ; 
Samuel  his  prophet  too, 

He  heard,  when  they  implor'd. 
Before  the  camp,  their  guide 

The  cloudy  pillar  mov'd  ; 
They  kept  his  laws,  and  they 

Obedient  servants  prov'd, 

His  ordinance  they  lov'd. 

1  He  heard,  and  oft  forgave 

Nor  would  destroy  their  race, 
But  oft  his  wrath  was  known 

When  they  abus'd  his  grace  : 
Then,  in  his  sacred  courts, 

Due  praise  to  him  afford, 
For  he  who  holy  is, 

Alone  should  be  ador'd  : 

Ye  saints,  praise  ye  the  Lord. 

Psalm  100.    l.m. 

BEFORE  Jehovah's  awful  throne, 
Ye  nations  bow  with  sacred  joy  ; 
Know  that  the  Lord  is  God  alone  ; 
He  can  create,  and  he  destroy. 

2  His  sovereign  power  without  our  aid 
Made  us  of  clay,  and  form'd  us  men; 
And  when  like  wand'ring  sheep  we  stray'd,, 
He  brought  us  to  his  fold  again. 

3  We  are  his  people,  we  his  care, " 
Our  souls,  and  all  our  mortal  frame  : 
What  lasting  honours  shall  we  rear, 
Almighty  Maker,  to  thy  name  ? 

4  We'll  croud  thy  gates  with  thankful  songs. 
High  as  the  heaven,  our  voices  raise  ; 
And  earth  with  her  ten  thousand  tongues 
Shall  fill  thy  courts  with  sounding  praise. 


PSALM  CI.  167 

5  Wide  as  the  world  is  thy  command, 
Vast  as  eternity  thy  love  ; 
Firm  as  a  rock  thy  truth  must  stand, 
When  rolling  years  shall  cease  to  move. 

Psalm  101.    l.  m. 

1  11   /TERCY  and  judgment  are  my  song, 
JLVJl    And  since  they  both  to  thee  beiong; 
My  gracious  God,  my  righteous  King, 

To  thee  my  songs  and  vows  I  bring. 

2  If  I  am  rais'd  to  bear  the  sword, 
I'll  take  my  counsel  from  thy  word  ; 
Thy  justice  and  thy  heavenly  grace 
Shall  be  the  pattern  of  my  ways. 

3  Let  wisdom  ail  my  actions  guide, 
And  let  my  God  with  me  reside  : 
No  wicked  thing  shall  dwell  with  me, 
Which  may  provoke  thy  jealousy. 

4  No  sons  of  slander,  rage  and  strife 
Shall  be  companions  of  my  life  ; 
The  haughty  look,  the  heart  of  pride, 
Within  my  doors  shall  ne'er  abide. 

5  I'll  search  the  land  and  raise  the  just 
To  posts  of  honour,  wealth  and  trusty 
The  men  that  work  thy  holy  will 
Shall  be  my  friends  and  fav'rites  still. 

6  In  vain  shall  sinners  hope  to  rise 
By  flatt'ring  or  malicious  lies  ; 
Nor,  while  the  innocent  1  guard, 
Shaii  bold  offenders  e'er  be  spar'd. 

7  The  impious  crew  (that  factious  band) 
Shall  hide  their  heads,  or  quit  the  land  ; 
And  all  that  break  the  public  rest, 
Where  1  have  power  shall  be  supprest- 


168  PSALM  CII. 

Psalm  102.   c.  m. 

I   TTEAR  me,  O  God,  nor  hide  thy  face, 
11    But  answer,  Jest  1  die  ; 
Hast  thou  not  built  a  throne  of  grace, 
To  hear  when*  sinners  cry  ? 
*3  My  days  are  wasted  like  the  smoke 
Dissolving  in  the  air  ; 
My  strength  is  dry'd,  my  heart  is  broke, 
■     And  sinking  in  despair. 

3  My  spirits  flag  like  withering  grass 

Burnt  with  excessive  heat : 
In  secret  groans  my  minutes  pass, 
And  1  forget  to  eat. 

4  As  on  some  lonely  building's  top, 

The  sparrow  tells  her  moan, 
Far  from  the  tents  of  joy  and  hope 
I  sit  and  grieve  alone. 

5  My  soul  is  like  a  wilderness, 

Where  beasts  of  midnight  howl ; 
Where  the  sad  raven  finds  her  place, 
And  where  the  screaming  owl. 

6  Dark  dismal  thoughts  and  boding  fears 

Dwell  in  my  troubled  breast ; 
While  sharp  reproaches  wound  my  ears, 
Nor  give  my  spirit  rest. 

7  My  cup  is  mingled  with  my  woes, 

And  tears  are  my  repast ; 
My  daily  bread  like  ashes  grows 
Unpleasant  to  my  taste. 

8  Sense  can  afford  no  real  joy 

To  souls  that  feel  thy  frown  ; 
Lord,  :twas  thy  hand  advanc'd  me  high. 
Thy  hand  hath  cast  me  down. 


PSALM  CII.  169 

9  My  looks  like  wither'd  leaves  appear  ; 
And  life's  declining  light 
Grows  faint  as  evening  shadows  are. 
That  vanish  into  night. 

10  But  thou  for  ever  art  the  same, 

O  my  eternal  God  ; 
Ages  to  come  shall  know  thy  name, 
And  spread  thy  works  abroad. 

1 1  Thou  wilt  arise,  and  shew  thy  face, 

Nor  will  my  Lord  delay, 
Beyond  th'  appointed  hour  of  grace, 
That  long  expected  day. 

12  He  hears  his  saints,  he  knows  their  cry, 

And  by  mysterious  ways, 
Redeems  the  pris'ners  doom'd  to  die, 
And  fills  their  tongues  with  praise. 

PART   II. 

13  Let  Sion  and  her  sons  rejoice  ; 

Behold  the  promis'd  hour  : 
Her  God  hath  heard  her  mourning  voice, 
And  comes  t'  exalt  his  power. 

14  Her  dust  and  ruins  that  remain, 

Are  precious  in  our  eyes  ; 

Those  ruins  shall  be  built  again, 

And  all  that  dust  shall  rise. 

15  The  Lord  will  raise  Jerusalem, 

And  stand  in  glory  there  : 
Nations  shall  bow  before  his  name, 
And  kings  attend  with  fear. 

16  He  sits  a  sovereign  on  his  throne, 

With  pity  in  his  eyes  ; 
He  hears  the  dying  prisoners'  groan, 
And  sees  their  sighs  arise* 

a* 


170  PSALM  CII. 

17  He  frees  the  souls  condemn'd  to  death, 

And  when  his  saints  complain, 
It  sha'nt  be  said,  "  that  praying  breath, 
"  Was  ever  spent  in  vain." 

18  This  shall  be  known  when  we  are  dead, 

And  left  on  long  record  ; 
That  ages  yet  unborn  may  read, 
And  trust  and  praise  the  Lord. 

PART   III.     L.  M. 

19  It  is  the  Lord  our  Saviour's  hand 
Weakens  our  strength  amidst  the  race  ; 
Disease  and  death  at  his  command 
Arrest  us  and  cut  short  our  days. 

20  Spare  us,  O  Lord,  aloud  we  pray, 
Nor  let  our  sun  go  down  at  noon  ; 
Thy  years  are  one  eternal  day, 
And  must  thy  children  die  so  soon  ? 

21  Yet  in  the  midst  of  death  and  grief 
This  thought  our  sorrow  shall  assuage  ; 
"  Our  Father  and  our  Saviour  live  ; 
"  Christ  is  the  same  through  ev'ry  age." 

22  'Twas  he  this  earth's  foundation  laid  ; 
Heaven  is  the  building  of  his  hand  ; 

The  earth  grows  old,  these  heavens  shall  fade ; 
And  all  be  chang'd  at  his  command. 

23  The  starry  curtains  of  the  sky 
Like  garments  shall  be  laid  aside  : 

But  still  thy  throne  stands  firm  and  high ; 
Thy  church  for  ever  must  abide. 

24  Before  thy  face  thy  church  shall  live, 
And  on  thy  throne  thy  children  reign  ; 
This  dying  world  shall  they  survive, 
And  the  dead  saints  be  rais'd  again. 


PSALM  CIII.  171 

Psalm  103.    l.  m. 

1  ]\  4TY  soul,  inspir'd  with  sacred  love, 
JLVjL  God's  holy  name  for  ev-  r  bless ; 
Of  all  his  favours  mindful  prove, 

And  still  thy  grateful  thanks  express. 

2  'Tis  he  that  all  thy  sins  forgives, 
And  after  sickness  makes  thee  sound  ; 
From  danger  he  thy  life  retrieves, 

By  him  with  grace  and  mercy  crown 'd. 

3  He  with  good  things  thy  mouth  supplies, 
Thy  vigour,  eagle-iike  renews  ; 

He,  when  the  guiltless  sufPrer  cries, 
His  foe  with  just  revenge  pursues. 

4  God  made  of  old  his  righteous  ways 
To  Moses  and  our  fathers  known; 
His  works,  to  his  eternal  praise, 
Were  to  the  sons  of  Jacob  shown. 

5  The  Lord  abounds  with  tender  love, 
And  unexampled  acts  of  grace, 

His  waken'd  wrath  does  slowly  move. 
His  willing  mercy  flows  apace. 

6  God  will  not  always  harshly  chide, 
But  with  his  anger  quickly  part : 
And  loves  his  punishment  to  guide, 
More  by  his  love  than  our  desert. 

7  As  high  as  heav'n  its  arch  extends 
Above  this  little  spot  of  clay, 

So  much  his  boundless  love  transcends 
The  small  respects  that  we  can  pay. 

8  As  far  as  'tis  from  east  to  west, 
So  far  has  he  our  sins  remov'd, 
Who  with  a  father's  tender  breast 
Has  such  as  feat  him  aiways  lov?cL 


172  PSALM  CIV. 

9  For  God,  who  all  our  frame  surveys, 
Considers  that  we  are  but  clay  ; 
How  fresh  soe'er  we  seem,  our  days, 
Like  grass  or  flowers  must  fade  away. 

10  Whilst  they  are  nipp'd  with  sudden  blasts,, 
Nor  can  we  find  their  former  place, 
God's  faithful  mercy  ever  lasts, 
To  those  that  fear  him,  and  their  race. 

1 1  This  shall  attend  on  such  as  still 
Proceed  in  his  appointed  way ; 
And  who  not  only  know  his  will, 
But  to  it  just  obedience  pay. 

12  The  Lord,  the  universal  King, 
In  heaven  has  fix'd  his  lofty  throne  ; 
To  him,  ye  angels,  praises  sing, 
In  whose  great  strength  his  power  is  shown 

13  Ye  that  his  just  commands  obey, 
And  hear  and  do  his  sacred  will ; 
Ye  hosts  of  his,  this  tribute  pay, 
Who  still  what  he  ordains  fulfil. 

14  Let  ev'ry  creature  jointly  bless 
The  mighty  Lord  ;  and  thou,  my  heart, 
With  grateful  joy  thy  thanks  express, 
And  in  this  concert  bear  thy  part. 

Psalm  104.    l.  m. 

1  T)  LESS  God,  my  soul :  thou,  Lord,  alone 
J3   Possessest  empire  without  bounds, 
With  honour  thou  art  crownd,  thy  throne 
Eternal  majesty  surrounds. 

2  With  light  thou  dost  thyself  enrobe, 
And  glory  for  a  garment  take  : 
Heaven's  curtains  stretch  beyond  the  globe, 
Thy  canopy  of  state  to  make. 


PSALM  CIV.  173 

God  builds  on  liquid  air,  and  forms 
His  palace- chambers  in  the  skies  ; 
The  clouds  his  chariots  are,  and  storms 
The  swift- wing'd  steeds  with  which  he  flies* 
As  bright  as  flame,  as  swift  as  wind, 
His  ministers  heaven's  palace  fill, 
To.  have  their  sundry  tasks  assign'd  ; 
And  glad  to  serve  their  sovereign's  wilL 

Earth  on  her  centre  fix'd,  he  set, 
Her  face  with  waters  overspread  ; 
Nor  proudest  mountains  dar'd  as  yet 
To  lift  above  the  waves  their  head. 

But  when  thy  awful  face  appear'd, 
Th'  insulting  waves  dispers'd  ;  they  fled, 
When  once  thy  thunder's  voice  they  heard. 
And  by  their  haste  confess'd  their  dread. 

Thence  up  by  secret  tracks  they  creep  : 

And  gushing  from  the  mountain's  side, 

Through  vallies  travel  to  the  deep, 

Appointed  to  receive  their  tide. 

There  hast  thou  fix'd  the  ocean's  bounds, 

The  threatning  surges  to  repel ; 

That  they  no  more  o'erpass  their  mounds. 

Nor  to  a  second  deluge  swell. 

PART   II. 

The  chrystal  streams  from  mountains  drawn, 
Rush  down  the  rocks  and  cragged  hills  ; 
And  starting  springs,  from  ev'ry  lawn, 
Enrich  the  vales  with  plenteous  rills. 

The  fields'  tame  beasts  are  thither  led, 
Weary  with  labour,  faint  with  drought ; 
A; id  asses  wild  on  mountains  bred, 
Have  sense  to  find  their  currents  out 


174  PSALM  CIV. 

1 1  There  shady  trees  from  scorching  beams 
Yield  shelter  to  the  feather'd  throng  ; 
They  drink,  and  to  the  bounteous  streams 
Return  the  tribute  of  their  song. 

12  His  rains  from*  heaven  parch'd  hills  recruit 
That  soon  transmit  the  liquid  store  ; 

Till  earth  is  burden'd  with  her  fruit, 
And  nature's  lap  can  hold  no  more. 

13  Grass  for  our  cattle  to  devour, 

He  makes  the  growth  of  ev'ry  field  ; 
Herbs  for  man's  use  of  various  power, 
That  either  food  or  physic  yield. 

14  With  cluster'd  grapes  he  crowns  the  vine, 
To  cheer  man's  heart  oppress'd  with  cares 
Gives  oil  that  makes  his  face  to  shine, 
And  corn  that  wasted  strength  repairs. 

PART   III. 

15  The  trees  of  God,  without  the  care 
Or  art  of  man,  with  sap  are  fed  : 
The  moumain-cedar  looks  as  fair 
As  those  in  royal  gardens  bred. 

16  Safe  in  the  lofty  cedar's  arms 
The  wand'rers  of  the  air  may  rest ; 
The  hospitable  fir  from  harms 
Protects  the  stork,  her  yearly  guest. 

17  Wild  goats  the  craggy  rock  ascend, 

Its  tow'ring  heights  their  fortress  make  ; 
Its  cells  in  labyrinths  extend, 
Where  feebler  creatures  refuge  take. 

18  The  moon's  inconstant  aspect  shows 
The  varied  progress  of  the  year  ; 
Th'  instructed  sun  his  duty  knows. 
His  hours  to  rise  and  disappear. 


PSALM  CIV.  175 

Darkness  he  makes  the  earth  to  shroud, 
When  forest-beasts  securely  stray  ; 
Young  lions  roar  their  wants  aloud, 
To  Providence  that  sends  them  prey. 

They  rage  all  night,  on  slaughter  bent, 
Till  summon'd  by  the  rising  morn, 
To  skulk  in  dens,  with  one  consent, 
The  conscious  ravagers  return. 

Forth  to  the  tillage  of  his  soil 
The  husbandman  securely  goes, 
Commencing  with  the  sun  his  toil, 
With  him  returns  to  his  repose. 

How  various,  Lord,  thy  works  are  found, 
For  which  thy  wisdom  we  adore  ! 
The  earth  is  with  thy  treasure  crown'd, 
Till  nature's  hand  can  grasp  no  more. 

PART   IV. 

But  still  the  vast  unfathom'd  main 
Of  wonders  a  new  scene  supplies, 
Whose  depths  inhabitants  contain 
Of  ev'ry  form  and  ev'ry  size. 

Full-freighted  ships  from  ev'ry  port, 
There  cut  their  unmolested  way  ; 
Leviathan,  whom  there  to  sport 
Thou  mad'st  his  compass  there  to  play. 

These  various  troops  of  sea  and  land 
In  sense  of  common  want  agree  ; 
All  wait  on  thy  dispensing  hand, 
And  have  their  daily  alms  from  thee. 
They  gather  what  thy  stores  disperse,,     * 
Without  their  trouble  to  provide  : 
Thou  op'st  thy  hand,  the  universe, 
The  craving  world,  is  all  supply'd. 


176  PSALM  CV. 

27  Thou  for  a  moment  hid'st  thy  face, 

The  num'rous  ranks  of  creatures  mourn  ; 
Thou  tak'st  their  breath,  all  nature's  race 
Forthwith  to  mother  earth  return. 

28  Again  thou  send'st  thy  spirit  forth, 
T'  inspire  the  mass  with  vital  seed  ; 
Nature's  restor'd,  and  parent  earth 
Smiles  on  her  new  created  breed. 

29  Thus  through  successive  ages  stands 
Firm  fix'd  thy  providential  care  ; 
Pleas'd  with  the  works  of  thy  own  hands, 
Thou  dost  the  wastes  of  time  repair. 

30  One  look  of  thine,  one  wrathful  look, 
Earth's  panting  breast  with  terror  fills ; 
One  touch  from  thee,  with  clouds  of  smoke 
In  darkness  shrouds  the  proudest  hills. 

3 1  In  praising  God,  while  he  prolongs 
My  breath,  I  will  that  breath  employ  : 
And  join  devotion  to  my  songs, 
Sincere,  as  in  him  is  my  joy. 

•32  While  sinners  from  earth's  face  are  hurl'd, 
My  soul,  praise  thou  his  holy  name, 
Till  with  thy  song,  the  list'ning  world 
Join  concert,  and  his  praise  proclaim. 

Psalm  105.   p.  m. 

1   y^V  RENDER  thanks,  and  bless  the  Lord, 
V^/   Invoke  his  ever  sacred  name  ; 
Acquaint  the  nations  with  his  deeds, 
His  great  and  matchless  deeds  proclaim  : 
His  wondrous  works  in  hymns  rehearse, 
Make  them  the  subject  of  your  verse. 


PSALM  CV.  177 

2  Rejoice  in  his  almighty  name, 
Which  only  ought  to  be  ador'd  ; 
And  let  their  hearts  o'erflow  with  joy, 
Who  seek  with  humble  fear  the  Lord  : 
Seek  ye  the  Lord,  his  strength  implore, 
Seek  ye  his  face  for  evermore. 

3  The  wonders  which  his  hands  have  wrought. 
Keep  ever  thankfully  in  mind  ; 

With  all  the  statutes  of  his  mouth, 
And  laws  he  hath  to  us  assign'd  : 
His  works  are  glorious  to  the  view, 
His  judgments  all  are  just  and  true. 

4  Know  ye,  his  servant  Abra'am's  seed, 
And  likewise  Jacob's  chosen  race  ; 

He's  still  our  God,  and  through  the  earth, 
His  righteous  judgments  will  take  place  : 
His  word,  for  thousand  ages  past, 
Hath  stood,  and  shall  for  ever  last. 

5  His  cov'nant  first  to  Abra'am  sign'd, 
By  oath  to  Isaac  made  secure  ; 

To  Jacob,  and  his  heirs,  confirmed, 
A  law  for  ever  to  endure  : 
A  Testament  to  Israel  made, 
Is  on  a  firm  foundation  laid. 

6  That  Canaan's  land  shall  be  their  lot, 
When  yet  but  few  of  them  there  were  ; 
But  few  in  number,  and  those  few 
Forlorn  and  helpless  strangers  there  : 
From  realm  to  realm  secure  they  mov'd, 
Whilst  Kings  were  for  their  sakes  reprov'd. 

7  "  These  mine  anointed  are  (said  he) 

"  Let  none  my  chosen  servants  wrong  ; 
"  Nor  treat  the  poorest  prophet  ill, 

K 


178  *>SALM  CV. 

"  That  doth  to  me,  his  God,  belong  : 
At  last  he  made  their  corn  to  fail, 
And  through  the  land  a  dearth  prevail. 

8  But  Joseph  he  had  sent  before, 
Who  for  a  slave  was  sold  and  bound  ; 
His  feet,  secur'd  within  the  stocks, 
Did  galling  irons  pierce  and  wound  : 
Till  God's  appointed  time  and  word, 
Had  try'd  him,  and  did  help  afford. 

9  The  king  then  sent  and  set  him  free, 
And  Lord  of  all  his  household  made  ; 
His  wealth  he  gave  to  him  in  charge, 
Before  him  all  his  counsels  laid  ; 

That  he  might  teach  his  statesmen  skilly 
And  tell  the  princes  of  his  will. 

PART   II. 

10  To  Egypt  then,  invited  guests, 
With  speed  half  famish'd  Israel  came  ; 
And  Jacob,  though  a  stranger,  held 
By  royal  grant  the  land  of  Ham  : 
There  God  his  people  multiply 'd, 
Till  they  with  their  oppressors  vied. 

11  Their  vast  increase,  th'  Egyptians'  hearts* 
With  jealousy  and  anger  fir'd  ; 

Till  they,  his  servants  to  destroy, 
With  secret  treachery  conspir'd  : 
Their  hearts  against  his  people  turn'd, 
Their  breasts  with  inward  envy  burn'd. 
i  2  His  servant  Moses  then  he  sent, 
He  sent  his  chosen  Aaron  too  ; 
Empower'd  with  signs  and  miracles, 
To  prove  their  sacred  mission  true  : 
These  shew'd  the  wonders  of  his  hand, 
And  spread  their  tokens  through  the  land. 


PSALM  CV.k  179 

13  He  call'd  for  darkness,  and  it  came, 
Yet  would  they  not  his  voice  obey  ; 
He  turn'd  their  waters  into  blood,. 
And  did  their  fish  in  numbers  slay  : 
A  noisome  pest  of  frogs  was  bred, 
And  sent  to  croak  at  Pharaoh's  bed. 

14  He  gave  the  sign,  and  swarms  of  flies. 
Came  from  above  in  cloudy  hosts  ; 
While  earth's  enliven'd  dust  below, 
Bred  hateful  lice  through  all  their  coasts : 
Hail  stones  he  did  for  rain  command, 
And  flames  of  fire  to  plague  the  land. 

15  He  smote  their  fig-trees  and  their  vines. 
Their  lofty  forest  trees  destroy'd  ; 
Locust  and  caterpillars  join'd 

In  dreadful  swarms,  the  land  annoy'd  : 
Their  numbers  cover'd  all  the  ground, 
And  eat  the  fruit  and  herbage  round. 

16  He,  in  one  night  their  first  born  smote, 
The  chief  of  all  their  pride  he  slew ; 
But  from  their  land,  enrich'd  with  spoils. 
In  health  and  strength  his  servants  drew 
Egypt  was  glad  when  they  remov'd 
Who  had  to  them  so  fatal  prov'd. 

17  God  spread  a  cloud  to  cover  them, 
A  fire  at  night  was  their  sure  guide  ; 
He  gave  them  quails  at  their  desire, 
And  them  with  heav'nly  bread  supply'd : 
He  smote  the  rock,  and  from  the  wound. 
The  gushing  waters  flow'd  around. 

18  For  he  his  promise  kept  in  mind, 
And  brought  his  people  forth  with  joy  ; 
Gave  them  the  fruit  of  others'  toil, 
And  did  their  heathen  foes  destroy  : 
That  they  his  statutes  might  obey, 
And  to  his  laws  due  rev'rence  pay. 


*30  PSALM  CVL 

Psalm  106.  l.  m. 

1  f^\  RENDER  thanks  to  God  above, 

V_^  The  fountain  of  eternal  love  ; 
Whose  mercy  firm,  through  ages  past 
Has  stood  and  shall  for  ever  last. 

2  Who  can  his  mighty  deeds  express, 
Not  only  vast,  but  numberless  ? 
What  mortal  eloquence  can  raise 
His  tribute  of  immortal  praise  ? 

3  Happy  are  they,  and  only  they, 
Who  from  thy  judgments  never  stray  : 
Who  knows  what's  right ;  nor  only  so, 
But  always  practise  what  they  know. 

4  Extend  to  me  that  favour,  Lord, 
Thou  to  thy  chosen  dost  afford  ; 
When  thou  return'stto  set  them  free, 
Let  thy  salvation  visit  me. 

5  O  may  I  worthy  prove-  to  see 
Thy  saints  in  full  prosperity  ; 
That  I  the  joyful  choir  may  join, 
And  count  thy  people's  triumph  mine, 

6  But,  ah  !  can  we  expect  such  grace, 
Of  parents  vile  the  viler  race  ; 
Who  their  misdeeds  have  acted  o'er, 
And  with  new  crimes  increas'd  the  score. 

7  Ungrateful,  they  no  longer  thought, 
On  all  his  works  in  Egypt  wrought ; 
The.  red  sea  they  no  sooner  view'd, 
But  they  their  base  distrust  renew'd. 

8  Yet  he,  to  vindicate  his  name, 
Once  more  to  their  deliv'rance  came, 
To  make  his  sovereign  pow'r  be  known 
That  he  is  God,  and  he  alone. 


PSALM  CVL  181 

9  To  right  and  left,  at  his  command, 
The  parting  deep  disclos'd  her  sand ; 
Where  firm  and  dry  the  passage  lay, 
As  through  some  parch'd  and  desert  way. 

10  Thus  rescifd  from  their  foes  they  were, 
Who  closely  press'd  upon  their  rear  ; 
Whose  rage  pursu'd  them  to  those  waves 
That  prov'd  the  rash  pursuers1  graves. 

1 1  The  wat'ry  mountain's  sudden  fail 
O'erwhelm'd  proud  Pharaoh,  host  and  all. 
This  proof  did  stupid  Israel  move 

To  own  God's  truth,  and  praise  his  love'. 

PART   II. 

12  To  God,  the  great,  the  ever  blest, 
Let  songs  of  honour  be  addrest ; 
His  mercy  firm  for  ever  stands  ; 

Give  him  the  thanks  his  love  demands, 

13  Who  knows  the  wonders  of  thy  ways  ? 
Who  shall  fulfil  thy  boundless  praise  ? 
Blest  are  the  souls  that  fear  thee  still, 
And  pay  their  duty  to  thy  will 

14  Remember  what  thy  mercy  did 
For  Jacob's  race,  thy  chosen  seed  ; 
And  with  the  same  salvation  bless 
The  meanest  suppliant  of  thy  grace. 

15  Oh  may  I  see  thy  tribes  rejoice, 

And  aid  their  triumphs  with  my  voice  . 
This  is  my  glory,  Lord,  to  be  * 
Join  d  to  thy  saints,  and  near  to  thee. 

R2 


182  PSALM  CVIL 

PART   III.    S.  M. 

16  God  of  eternal  love, 

How  fickle  are  our  ways  ! 
And  yet  how  oft  did  Israel  prove 
Thy  constancy  of  grace  ! 

17  They  saw  thy  wonders  wrought, 

And  then  thy  praise  they  sung  ; 
But  soon  thy  works  of  power  forgot, 
And  murmur'd  with  their  tongue. 

18  Now  they  believe  his  word, 

While  rocks  with  rivers  flow  ; 
Now  with  their  lusts  provoke  the  Lord. 
And  he  reduc'd  them  low. 

19  Yet  when  they  mourn'd  their  faults, 

He  hearken'd  to  their  groans  ; 
Brought  his  own  cov'nant  to  his  thoughts^ 
And  call'd  them  still  his  sons. 

20  Their  names  were  in  his  book, 

He  sav'd  them  from  their  foes  : 
Oft  he  chastis'd,  but  ne'er  forsook 
The  people  that  he  chose. 

21  Let  Israel  bless  the  Lord, 

Who  lov'd  their  ancient  race  ; 
And  christians  join  the  solemn  word, 
Amen  to  all  the  praise. 

Psalm  107*  l.  m. 

1  f  |  ^O  God  your  grateful  voices  raise, 

\_     Who  doth  your  daily  patron  prove  i 
And  let  your  never-ceasing  praise, 
Attend  on  his  eternal  love. 

2  Let  those  give  thanks,  whom  he  from  bands 
Of  proud  oppressing  foes  reieas'd  ; 


PSALM  CVII.  18£ 

And  brought  them  back  from  distant  lands, 
From  north  and  south,  and  west  and  east. 

3  Through  lonely  desert  ways  they  went, 
Nor  could  a  peopled  city  find  ; 

Till  quite  with  thirst  and  hunger  spent, 
Their  fainting  souls  within  them  pin'd. 

4  Then  soon  to  God's  indulgent  ear 
Did  they  their  mournful  cry  address  ; 
Who  graciously  vouchsafed  to  hear, 
And  freed  them  from  their  deep  distress. 

5  From  crooked  paths  he  led  them  forth, 
And  in  the  certain  way  did  guide 

To  wealthy  towns  of  great  resort, 
Where  all  their  wants  were  well  supply 'd. 

6  O  then  that  all  the  earth,  with  me, 
Would  God  for  this  his  goodness  praise  ! 
And  for  the  mighty  works  which  he 
Throughout  the  wond'ring  world  displays  ! 

7  For  he,  from  heaven,  the  sad  estate 
Of  longing  souls  with  pity  views  ; 
To  hungry  souls  that  pant  for  meat, 
His  goodness  daily  food  renews. 

PART   II. 

8  Some  sit,  writh  darkness  compass'd  round, 
In  death's  uncomfortable  shade  ; 

And  with  unwieldy  fetters  bound, 
By  pressing  cares  more  heavy  made. 
§  Because  God's  counsel  they  defy'd, 
And  lightly  priz'd  his  holy  word, 
With  these  afflictions  they  were  try'd  ; 
They  fell,  and  none  could  help  afford, 


184  PSALM  CVII. 

10  Then  soon  to  God's  indulgent  ear 
Did  they  their  mournful  cry  address  ; 
Who  graciously  vouchsafed  to  hear, 
And  freed  them  from  their  deep  distress. 

1 1  From  dismal  dungeons,  dark  as  night, 
And  shades  as  black  as  death's  abode, 
He  brought  them  forth  to  cheerful  light, 
And  welcome  liberty  bestow'd. 

12  O  then  that  all  the  earth  with  me 
Would  God  for  this  his  goodness  praise  ! 
And  for  the  mighty  works  which  he 
Throughout  the  wond'ring  world  displays. 

13  For  he,  with  his  almighty  hand, 
The  gates  of  brass  in  pieces  broke  ; 
Nor  could  the  massy  bars  withstand, 
Or  temper'd  steel  resist  his  stroke. 

PART   III. 

14  Remorseless  wretches,  void  of  sense, 
With  boid  transgressions  God  defy  r 
And,  for  their  multiplv'd  offence, 
Oppress'd  with  sore  diseases  lie. 

15  Their  soul,  a  prey  to  pain  and  fear, 
Abhors  to  taste  the  choicest  meats  ; 
And  they,  by  faint  degrees,  draw  near 
To  death's  inhospitable  gates. 

16  Then  straight  to  God's  indulgent  ear 
Do  they  their  mournful  cry  address ; 
Who  graciously  vouchsafes  to  hear, 
And  frees  them  from  their  deep  distress, 

17  He  all  their  sad  distempers  heals, 

His  word  both  health  and  safety  gives  ; 
And  when  all  human  succour  fails, 
From  near  destruction  them  retrieves. 


PSALM  CVIi.  185 

18  O  then  that  all  the,  earth  with  me 
Would  God  for  this  his  goodness  praise  ! 
And  for  the  mighty  works  which  he 
Throughout  the  wondVing  world  displays  I 

19  With  offerings  let  his  altar  flame, 
Whilst  they  their  grateful  thanks  express  ; 
And  with  loud  joy  his  holy  name, 

For  all  his  acts  of  wonder  bless  ! 

PART   IV. 

-20  They  that  in  ships,  with  courage  bold, 
O'er  swelling  waves  their  trade  pursue, 
Do  God's  amazing  works  behold, 
And  in  the  deep  his  wonders  view. 

21  No  sooner  his  command  is  past, 
But  forth  a  dreadful  tempest  flies, 
Which  sweeps  the  sea  with  rapid  haste, 
And  makes  the  stormy  billows  rise, 

22  Sometimes  the  ships,  toss'd  up  to  heaverc, 
On  tops  of  mountain-waves  appear  ; 
Then  down  the  steep  abyss  are  driven, 
Whilst  ev'ry  soul  dissolves  with  fear. 

23  They  reel  and  stagger  to  and  fro, 
Like  men  with  fumes  of  wine  opprest , 
Nor  do  the  skilful  seamen  know 
Which  way  to  steer,  what  course  is  best, 

24  Then  straight  to  God's  indulgent  ear 
They  do  their  mournful  cry  address ; 
Who  graciously  vouchsafes  to  hear, 
And  frees  them  from  their  deep  distress. 

25  He  does  the  raging  storm  appease, 
And  makes  the  billows  calm  and  still ; 
With  joy  they  see  their  fury  cease, 
And  their  intended  course  fulfil* 


186  PSALM  CVII. 

26  O  then  that  all  the  earth  with  me 
Would  God  for  this  his  goodness  praise! 
And  for  the  mighty  works  which  he 
Throughout  the  wond'ring  world  displays! 

27  Let  them  where  all  the  saints  resort, 
Advance  to  heaven  his  glorious  name  :■ 
And  in  the  assembled  elders'  court, 
With  gratitude  his  praise  proclaim. 

part  v. 

28  A  fruitful  land,  where  streams  abound* 
God's  just  revenge,  if  people  sin, 
Will  turn  to  dry  and  barren  ground, 
To  punish  those  that  dwell  therein. 

29  The  parch'd  and  desart  heath  he  makes 
To  flow  with  streams  and  springing  wells, 
Which  for  his  lot  the  hungry  takes 
And  in  strong  cities  safely  dwells. 

30  He  sows  the  field,  the  vineyard  plants-, 
Which  gratefully  his  toil  repay  ; 

Nor  can,  whilst  God  his  blessing  grants, 
His  fruitful  seed  or  stock  decay. 

31  But  when  his  sins  heaven's  wrath  provoke. 
His  health  and  substance  fade  away, 

He  feels  th'  oppressor's  galling  yoke, 
And  is  of  grief  the  wretched  prey.  - 

32  The  prince  that  slights  what  God  commands, 
Expos'd  to  scorn,  must  quit  the  throne  ; 
And  over  wild  and  desart  lands^ 

Where  no  path  offers,  stray  alone. 

33  Whilst  God,  from  all  afflicting  cares, 
Sets  up  the  humble  man  on  high  ; 
And  makes  in  time  his  num'rous  heirs 
With  his  increasing  stock  to  vie-.. 


PSALM  CVIII.  187 

34  Then  sinners  shail  have  nought  to  say, 
The  just  a  decent  joy  shall  show  : 
The  wise  these  strange  events  shall  weigh, 
And  thence  God's  goodness  fully  know. 

Psalm  108.    l.  m. 

OGOD,  my  heart  is  fully  bent, 
To  magnify  thy  glorious  name  ; 
My  tongue  with  cheerful  songs  of  praise 
Shall  strive  to  celebrate  thy  fame. 
.'  Awake  my  lute,  nor  thou  my  harp, 
Thy  dulcet  warbling  notes  delay  ; 
Whilst  1  with  early  hymns  of  joy 
Prevent  the  dawning  of  the  day. 

3  To  all  the  list'ning  tribes,  O  Lord, 
Thy  works  of  wonder  I  will  tell ; 
And  to  those  nations  sing  thy  praise, 
Even  those  who  round  about  us  dwell, 

4  Because  thy  mercy's  boundless  height 
The  highest  heaven  itself  transcends, 
And  far  beyond  th'  aspiring  clouds, 
Thy  faithful  truth,  O  Lord,  extends, 

5  Be  thou,  O  God,  exalted  high, 
Above  the  glitt'ring  starry  frame ; 
And  let  the  world  with  one  consent 
Confess  thy  great  and  glorious  name. 

S  That  all  thy  chosen  people,  thee 
Their  God  and  Saviour  may  declare  : 
Let  thy  right  hand  protect  me  still, 
And  answer  thou  my  humble  pray'r. 

7  Since  God  himself  hath  said  the  word, 
Whose  faithful  promise  cannot  fail ; 
With  joy  1  Sichem  will  divide, 
And  measure  Succoth's  fruitful  vale  : 


188  PSALM  CIX. 

8  Gilead  is  mine,  Manasseh  too, 

And  Ephraim  likewise  owns  my  cause  ; 
Their  strength  my  regal  power  supports, 
And  Judah  publishes  my  laws. 

9  Moab  I'll  make  my  servile  drudge  ; 
On  vanquish'd  Edom  I  will  tread  ; 
And  through  the  proud  Philistine  land 
Will  my  triumphant  banners  spread. 

10  By  whose  support  and  aid,  shall  I 
The  well  defended  city  gain  ? 

,    Who  will  my  troops  securely  lead 

Through  Edom's  strongly  guarded  plain  ? 

11  Lord,  wilt  not  thou  assist  our  arms, 
Which  thou  so  lately  didst  forsake  ? 
And  wilt  not  thou  of  these  our  hosts 
Once  more  the  sole  direction  take  ? 

12  Oh,  to  thy  servants  in  distress, 
Thy  help  and  speedy  succour  send  ! 
For  vain  it  is,  on  human  aid, 

For  safety  ever  to  depend. 

13  Then  valiant  acts  shall  we  perform, 
If  thou  wilt  thy  great  power  disclose  ; 
For  God  it  is,  and  God  alone, 

That  treads  down  all  our  haughty  foes. 

Psalm  109.   c.  m. 

i   /^\  GOD,  whose  former  mercies  make 
V^/     My  constant  praise  thy  due, 
Hold  not  thy  peace,  but  my  sad  state 
With  wonted  favours  view. 

2  For  sinful  men,  with  lying  lips, 
Deceitful  speeches  frame, 
And  with  their  study'd  slanders  seek 
To  wound  my  spotless  fame. 


PSALM  CIX.  189 

3  Their  restless  hatred  prompts  them  still 

Malicious  lies  to  spread  : 
And  all  against  my  life  combine, 
By  causeless  f ary  led. 

4  Those  whom  with  tend'rest  love  I  us'd, 

My  chief  opposers  are  ; 
Whilst  I,  of  other  friends  bereft, 
Resort  to  thee  by  pray'r. 

5  Since  mischief  for  the  good  I  did 

Their  strange  reward  does  prove ; 
And  hatred's  the  return  they  make 
For  undissembled  love  : 

6  Their  guilty  leader  shall  be  made 

To  some  ill  man  a  slave  ; 
And  when  he's  try'd,  his  mortal  foe 
For  his  accuser  have. 

7  His  guilt,  when  sentence  is  pronounc'd, 

Shall  meet  a  dreadful  fate  ; 
Whilst  his  rejected  prayer  but  serves 
His  crimes  to  aggravate. 

8  He,  stung  with  deep  remorse,  an  end 

Of  his  own  life  shall  make  ; 
Another,  by  divine  decree, 
Shall  his  high  office  take. 

9  His  seed  shall  orphan  be,  his  wife 

A  widow  plung'd  in  grief; 
His  vagrant  children  beg  their  bread, 
Where  none  can  give  relief. 

10  His  ill-got  riches  shall  be  made, 
To  usurers  a  prey  ; 
The  fruit  of  all  his  toil  shall  be 
By  strangers  borne  away. 


190  PSALM  CIX. 

1 1  None  shall  be  found  that  to  his  wants 

Their  mercy  will  extend, 

Or  to  his  helpless  orphan- seed 

The  least  assistance  lend. 

12  A  swift  destruction  soon  shall  seize 

On  his  unhappy  race  ; 
And  the  next  age  his  hated  name, 
Shall  utterly  deface. 

PART   II. 

13  God  of  my  mercy  and  my  praise, 

Thy  glory  is  my  song ; 
Though  sinners  speak  against  thy  grace 
With  a  blaspheming  tongue. 

14  When  in  the  form  of  mortal  man 

Thy  Son  on  earth  was  found  ; 
With  cruel  slanders  false  and  vain 
They  compass  him  around. 

15  Their  mis'ries  his  compassion  move, 

Their  peace  he  still  pursu'd  ; 
They  render  hatred  for  his  love, 
And  evil  for  his  good. 

16  Their  malice  rag'd  without  a  cause, 

Yet  with  his  dying  breath 
He  pray'd  for  murd'rers  on  his  cross, 
And  blest  his  foes  in  death. 

17  Lord  shall  thy  bright  example  shine 

In  vain  before  my  eyes ; 
Give  me  a  soul  akin  to  thine, 
To  love  mine  enemies. 

18  The  Lord  shall  on  my  side  engage, 

And  in  my  Saviour's  name 

I  shall  defeat  their  pride  and  rage, 

Who  slander  and  condemn. 


PSALM  CX.  191 

Psalm  110.   l.  m. 
1   np*HE  Lord  th'  eternal  Father  spake 

J_     To  Christ  my  Lord  ;  "  ascend  and  sit 
"  At  my  right  hand,  till  I  shall  make 
"  Thy  foes  submissive  at  thy  feet. 

2  "  From  Sion  shall  thy  word  proceed, 
"  Thy  word,  the  sceptre  in  thy  hand, 

"  Shall  make  the  hearts  of  rebels  bleed, 
"  And  bow  their  wills  to  thy  command. 

3  "  That  day  shall  shew  thy  pow'r  is  great, 

"  When  saints  shall  flock  with  willing  minds, 
"  And  sinners  crowd  thy  temple- gate, 
"  Where  holiness  in  beauty  shines. 

4  "  O  blessed  pow'r  !  O  glorious  day  ! 
"  What  a  large  vict'ry  shall  ensue  ; 

"  And  converts,  who  thy  grace  obey, 
"  Exceed  the  drops  of  morning  dew." 

5  The  Lord  pronoune'd  his  firm  decree, 
Nor  will  he  swerve  from  what  he  swore  : 
"  Eternal  shall  thy  priesthood  be, 

"  And  change  from  hand  to  hand  no  more. 

6  "  Aaron,  and  all  his  sons,  must  die, 
"  But  everlasting  life  is  thine, 

"  To  save  for  ever  those  that  fly 
"  For  refuge  from  the  wrath  divine. 

7  "  Melchisedec  was  made  by  me, 

"  On  earth  a  king  and  priest  at  once  ; 
"  Of  his  high  order  thou  shalt  be, 
"  A  king  and  priest  to  all  my  sons." 

8  Jesus  the  priest  ascends  his  throne, 
While  counsels  of  eternal  peace, 
Between  the  Father  and  the  Son, 
Proceed  with  honour  and  success , 


192  PSALM  CXI. 

9  Thro'  the  whole  earth  his  reign  shall  spread, 
And  crush  the  pow'rs  that  dare  rebel : 
Then  shall  he  judge  the  rising  dead, 
And  send  the  guilty  world  to  hell. 
10  Tho'  while  he  tread  his  glorious  way, 
He  drinks  the  bitter  stream  alone  ; 
The  sufferings  of  that  dreadful  day 
Shall  serve,  to  advance  him  to  the  throne. 

Psalm  111.    l.  m. 

1  TJ RAISE  ye  the  Lord :  our  God  to  praise 
Jl  My  soul  her  utmost  pow'rs  shall  raise ; 
With  private  friends,  and  in  the  throng 

Of  saints  his  praise  shall  be  my  song. 

2  His  works,  for  greatness  though  renown'd, 
His  wondrous  works  with  ease  are  found 
By  those  who  seek  for  them  aright, 
And  in  the  pious  search  delight. 

3  His  works  are  all  of  matchless  fame, 
And  universal  glory  claim  : 

His  truth,  confirmed  through  ages  past. 
Shall  to  eternal  ages  last. 

4  By  precept  he  has  us  enjoin'd, 

To  keep  his  wondrous  works  in  mind, 

And  to  posterity  record, 

That  good  and  gracious  is  our  Lord. 

5  His  bounty,  like  a  flowing  tide, 

Has  all  his  servants'  wants  supplied  ; 

And  he  will  ever  keep  in  mind 

His'  cov'nant  with  our  fathers  sign'd. 

6  At  once  astonish'd  and  o'erjoy'd, 

They  saw  his  matchless  pow'r  employed  ; 
Whereby  the  heathen  were  suppressed, 
And  we  their  heritage  possess'd. 


PSALM  CXII.  193 

7  Just  are  the  dealings  of  his  hands, 
Immutable  are  his  commands  ; 
By  truth  and  equity  sustahvd, 
And  for  eternal  rules  ordain'd. 

8  He  set  his  saints  from  bondage  free, 
And  then  establish'd  his  decree, 
For  ever  to  remain  the  same  : 
Holy  and  rev'rend  is  his  name. 

9  Who  wisdom's  sacred  prize  would  win, 
Must  with  the  fear  of  God  begin  ; 
Immortal  praise  and  heavenly  skill 
Have  they  who  know  and  do  his  will. 

Psalm  112.    l.  m. 

1  rr^H  AT  man  is  blest  who  stands  in  awe 

X     Of  God,  and  loves  his  sacred  law  : 
His  seed  on  earth  shall  be  renown'd, 
And  with  successive  honours  crown'd. 

2  His  house  the  seat  of  wealth  shall  be, 
An  inexhausted  treasury  ; 

His  justice,  free  from  all  decay, 
Shall  blessings  to  his  heirs  convey. 

3  The  soul  that's  fill'd  with  virtue's  light, 
Shines  brightest  in  affliction's  night : 
To  pity  the  distress'd  inclin'd, 

As  well  as  just  to  all  mankind. 

4  His  lib'ral  favours  he  extends  ; 
To  some  he  gives,  to  others  lends  ; 
Yet  what  his  charity  impairs, 

He  saves  by  prudence  in  affairs. 

5  Beset  with  threat'ning  dangers  round, 
Unmov'd  shall  he  maintain  his  ground  : 
The  sweet  remembrance  of  the  just 
Shall  nourish  when  he  sleeps  in  dust. 

S: 


194  PSALM  CXIII 

6  111  tidings  never  can  surprise 

His  heart  that  fix'd  on  God  relies  : 
On  safety's  rock  he  sits,  and  sees. 
The  shipwreck  of  his  enemies. 

7  His  hands,  while  they  his  alms  bestow'd  , 
His  glory's  future  harvest  sow'd  ; 

His  works  of  piety  and  love, 

Are  known  on  earth,  and  own'd  above . 

8  The  wicked  shall  his  triumph  see, 
And  gnash  their  teeth  in  agony  ; 
While  their  unrighteous  hopes  decay. 
And  vanish  with  themselves  away. 

Psalm  113.   l.  m. 
.1  "V7"E  servants  of  th' almighty  King? 
X     In  ev'ry  age  his  praises  sing  ; 
Where'er  the  sun  shall  rise  or  set, 
The  nations  shall  his  praise  repeat. 

2  Above  the  earth,  beyond  the  sky 
His  throne  of  glory  stands  on  high  ; 
Nor  time,  nor  place  his  power  restrain, 
Nor  bound  his  universal  reign. 

3  Which  of  the  sons  of  Adam  dare, 
Or  angels  with  their  God  compare  ? 
His  glories  how  divinely  bright ! 
"Who  dwells  in  uncreated  light : 

4  Behold  his  love  he  stoops  to  view 
What  saints  above  and  angels  do  ; 
And  condescends  yet  more  to  know 
The  mean  aifairs  of  men  below. 

5  From  dust  and  cottages  obscure, 
His  grace  exalts  the  humble  poor ! 
Gives  them  the  honour  of  his  sons, 
And  fits  them  for  their  heavenly  thrones. 


PSALM  CXIV.  1% 

6  A  word  of  his  creating  voice 

Can  make  the  barren  house  rejoice  : 
Tho'  Sarah's  ninety  years  were  past, 
The  promis'd  seed  is  born  at  last. 

7  With  joy  the  mother  views  her  son, 
And  tells  the  wonders  God  has  done  : 
Faith  may  grow  strong  when  sense  despairs  : 
If  nature  fails,  the  promise  bears. 

Psai<m  114.   L.  M. 

1  T  T  J  HEN  Isr'el  freed  from  Pharaoh's  hand, 

V  V     Left  the  proud  tyrant  and  his  land, 
The  tribes  with  cheerful  homage  own 
Their  King,  and  Judah  was  his  throne. 

2  Across  the  deep  their  journey  lay  ; 
The  deep  divides  to  make  them  way  ; 
Jordan  beheld  their  march  and  fled 
With  backward  current  to  his  head. 

3  The  mountains  shook  like  frighted  sheep, 
Like  lambs  the  little  hillocks  leap  ! 

Not  Sinai  on  her  base  could  stand, 
Conscious  of  sovereign  power  at  hand. 

4  What  pow'r  could  make  the  deep  divide  ? 
Make  Jordan  backward  roll  his  tide  ? 
Why  did  ye  leap,  ye  little  hills  ? 

And  whence  the  dread  that  Sinai  feels  ? 

5  Let  every  mountain,  ev'ry  flood 
Retire  and  know  th'  approaching  God, 
The  king  of  Israel  :  see  him  here  ; 
Tremble  thou  earth,  adore  and  fear. 

6  He  thunders,  and  all  nature  mourns, 
The  rock  to  standing  pools  he  turns  ; 
Flints  spring  with  fountains  at  his  word, 
And  fires  and  seas  confess  the  Lord. 


196  PSALM  CXV. 

Psalm  115.   l.  m. 

1  ^VTOT  to  ourselves,  who  are  but  dust, 
JL^I     Not  to  ourselves  is  glory  due, 
Eternal  God,  thou  only  just, 

Thou  only  gracious,  wise  and  true. 

2  Display  to  earth  thy  dreadful  name  ; 
Why  should  a  heathen's  haughty  tongue 
Insult  us,  and  to  raise  our  shame, 

Say,  '  where's  the  God  you've  serv'd  so  long.* 

3  The  God  we  serve  maintains  his  throne, 
Above  the  clouds,  beyond  the  skies  ; 
Through  all  the  earth  his  will  is  done, 
He  knows  our  groans,  he  hears  our  cries. 

4  But  the  vain  idols  they  adore, 

Are  senseless  shapes  of  stone  and  wood : 
At  best  a  mass  of  glitt'ring  ore, 
A  silver  saint  or  golden  god. 

PART  II.    c.  M. 

5  O  Israel  make  the  Lord  your  trust, 

Who  is  your  help  and  shield  : 
Priests,  Levites,  trust  in  him  alone., 
Who  only  help  can  yield. 

6  Let  all  who  truly  fear  the  Lord, 

On  him  their  fear  rely  : 
Who  them  in  danger  can  defend, 
And  all  their  wants  supply. 

7  Of  us  he  oft  has  mindful  been, 

And  Israel's  house  will  bless  ; 
Priests,  Levites,  Proselytes,  even  all 
Who  his  great  name  confess. 

$  On  you,  and  on  your  heirs,  he  will 
Increase  of  blessings  bring  ; 
Thrice  happy  you,  who  fav'rites  are 
Of  this  Almighty  King. 


PSALM  CXVI.  197 

9  Heaven's  highest  orb  of  glory  he 
His  empire's  seat  design'd ; 
And  gave  this  lower  globe  of  earth 
A  portion  to  mankind. 

10  They  who  in  death  and  silence  sleep, 
To  him  no  praise  afford  ; 
But  we  will  bless  for  evermore 
Our  ever-living  Lord. 

Psalm  116.   c.  m. 

1  '  ["  LOVE  (he  Lord ;  he  heard  my  cries, 
JL    And  pity'd  ev'ry  groan, 

Long  as  I  live  when  troubles  rise, 
v  I'll  hasten  to  his  throne. 

2  I  love  the  Lord  :  he  bow'd  his  ear. 

And  chas'd  my  griefs  away  : 
Oh  let  my  heart  no  more  despair, 
While  I  have  breath  to  pray  ! 

3  My  flesh  declin'd,  my  spirits  fell, 

And  I  drew  near  the  dead, 
While  inward  pangs  and  fears  of  hell 
Perplex'd  my  wakeful  head, 

4  "  My  God,  I  cry'd,  thy  servant  save, 

"  Thou  ever  good  and  just ; 
"  Thy  power  can  rescue  from  the  grave, 
"  Thy  power  is  all  my  trust." 

3  The  Lord  beheld  me  sore  distrest, 
He  bade  my  pains  remove  : 
Return,  my  soul,  to  God  thy  rest, 
For  thou  hast  known  his  love. 

6  My  God  hath  sav'd  my  soul  from  death, 
And  dried  my  falling  tears  : 
Now  to  his  praise  I'll  spend  my  breath. 
And  my  remaining  years, 


198  PSALM  CXVII. 

PART   II. 

7  What  shall  I  render  to  my  God 

For  all  his  kindness  shown  ? 
My  feet  shall  visit  thine  abode, 
My  songs  address  thy  throne, 

8  Among  the  saints  that  fill  thine  house, 

My  offerings  shall  be  paid  ; 
There  shall  my  zeal  perform  my  vows^ 
My  soul  in  anguish  made. 

9  How  much  is  mercy  thy  delight* 

Thou  ever- blessed  God  ! 
How  dear  thy  servants  in  thy  sight ! 
How  precious  is  their  blood  ! 

10  How  happy  all  thy  servants  are  ! 

How  great  thy  grace  to  me  ! 
My  life,  which  thou  hast  made  thy  care, 
Lord,  I  devote  to  thee. 

1 1  Now  I  am  thine,  for  ever  thine, 

Nor  shall  my  purpose  move  ; 
Thy  hand  has  loos'd  my  bonds  of  pain,. 
And  bound  me  with  thy  love. 

12  Here  in  thy  courts  I  leave  my  vow, 

And  thy  rich  grace  record : 
Witness  ye  saints,  who  hear  me  now, 
If  I  forsake  the  Lord. 

Psalm  117.   l.  m. 

1  T7ROM  all  that  dwell  below  the  skies, 
J7     Let  the  Creator's  praise  arise  : 
Let  the  Redeemer's  name  be  sung 
Through  every  land,  by  every  tongue. 

2  Eternal  are  thy  mercies,  Lord  ; 
Eternal  truth  attends  thy  word  ; 

Thy  praise  shall  sound  from  shore  to  shore, 
Till  suns  shall  set  and  rise  no  more. 


PSALM  CXV1II.  199 

Psalm  118.    c.  m. 

i   ^V  PRAISE  the  Lord,  for  he  is  good, 
\^/    His  mercies  ne'er  decay  ; 
That  his  kind  favours  ever  last, 
Let  thankful  Israel  say. 

3  Their  sense  of  his  eternal  love 
Let  Aaron's  house  express  ; 
And  that  it  never  fails,  let  all 
That  fear  the  Lord  confess. 

3  To  God  I  made  my  humble  moan, 

With  troubles  quite  opprest ; 
And  he  releas'd  me  from  my  straits, 
And  granted  my  request. 

4  Since,  therefore,  God  does  on  my  side 

So  graciously  appear, 
Why  should  the  vain  attempts  of  men 
Possess  my  soul  with  fear  ? 

PART  II. 

5  The  Lord  appears  my  helper  now, 

Nor  is  my  faith  afraid 
What  all  the  sons  of  earth  can  do, 
Since  heaven  affords  its  aid. 

6  'Tis  safer,  Lord,  to  hope  in  thee 

And  have  my  God  my  friend, 
Than  trust  in  men  of  high  degree, 
And  on  their  truth  depend. 

7  'Tis  through  the  Lord  my  heart  is  strongs 

In  him  my  lips  rejoice  ; 
While  his  salvation  is  my  song, 
How  cheerful  is  my  voice  ! 

$  Like  angry  bees  they  girt  me  round ; 
When  God  appears  they  fly  : 


200  PSALM  CXVIII. 

So  burning  thorns  with  crackling  sound 
Make  a  fierce  blaze,  and  die. 
9  Joy  to  the  saints  and  peace  belongs  ; 
The  Lord  protects  their  days  : 

Let  Israel  tune  immortal  songs 
To  his  almighty  grace. 

PART   III. 

10  Lord,  thou  hast  heard  thy  servant  cry. 

And  rescu'd  from  the  grave  ; 
Now  shall  he  live  :  (and  none  can  die, 
If  God  resolve  to  save. ) 

11  Thy  praise  more  constant  than  before^ 

Shall  fill  his  daily  breath  ; 
Thy  hand  that  hath  chastis'd  him  sore 
Defends  him  still  from  death. 

12  Open  the  gate  of  Sion  now, 

For  we  shall  worship  there, 
The  house  where  all  the  righteous  go 
Thy  mercy  to  declare. 

13  Amongst  th'  assemblies  of  thy  saints 

Our  thankful  voice  we  raise  ; 
There  we  have  told  thee  our  complaints, 
And  there  we  speak  thy  praise. 

PART   IV. 

14  Behold  the  sure  foundation  stone 

Which  God  in  Zion  lays, 
To  build  our  heavenly  hope  upon. 
And  his  eternal  praise. 

15  Chosen  of  God,  to  sinners  dear, 

And  saints  adore  the  name, 
They  trust  their  whole  salvation  here, 
Nor  shall  diey  suffer  shame. 


PSALM  CXVIII.  201 

16  The  foolish  builders,  scribe  and  priest, 

Reject  it  with  disdain  ; 
Firm  on  this  rock  the  church  shall  rest. 
And  envy  rage  in  vain. 

17  What  though  the  gates  of  hell  withstood  \ 

Yet  must  the  building  rise  : 
'Tis  thy  own  work,  Almighty  God, 
And  wondrous  in  our  eyes. 

PART   V. 

18  This  is  the  day  the  Lord  hath  made, 

He  calls  the  hours  his  own  : 
Let  heaven  rejoice,  let  earth  be  glad, 
And  praise  surround  the  throne. 

19  To-day  he  rose  and  left  the  dead  ; 

And  satan's  empire  fell ; 
To-day  the  saints  his  triumph  spread^ 
And  ail  his  wonders  teil. 

90  Hosanna  to  the  anointed  king, 
To  David's  holy  son, 
Help  us,  O  Lord,  descend  and  bring 
Salvation  from  thy  throne. 

21  Blest  is  the  Lord  who  comes  to  man 

With  messages  of  grace  : 
Who  comes  in  God  his  Father's  name, 
To  save  our  sinful  race. 

22  Hosanna  in  the  highest  strains 

The  church  on  earth  can  raise  ; 
The  highest  heavens  in  which  he  reigns, 
Shall  give  him  nobler  praise. 

PART   VI. 

23  God  is  the  Lord,  through  whom  we  all 

Both  light  and  comfort  find  ; 

T 


202  PSALM  CXIX. 

Fast  to  the  altar's  horns  with  chords 
The  chosen  victim  bind. 

24  Thou  art  my  Lord,  O  God,  and  still 

I'll  praise  thy  holy  name  ; 
Because  thou  only  art  my  God, 
I'll  celebrate  thy  fame. 

25  O  then  with  me  give  thanks  to  God, 

Who  still  does  gracious  prove  ; 
And  let  the  tribute  of  our  praise 
Be  endless  as  his  love. 

Psalm  119.    c.  m. 

ALEPH, PART   I. 

1  TT  O  W  bless'd  are  they  who  always  keep 
XX     The  pure  and  perfect  way  ! 

Who  never  from  the  sacred  paths 
Of  God's  commandments  stray. 

2  Thrice  bless'd  !  the  men  who  keep  his  word, 

And  practice  his  commands  ; 
Who  seek  the  Lord  with  all  their  heart, 
And  serve  him  with  their  hands. 

3  Such  men  their  utmost  caution  use 

To  shun  each  wicked  deed  ; 

And  in  the  path  which  he  directs 

With  constant  care  proceed. 

4  Thou  strictly  hast  enjoin'd  us,  Lord, 

To  learn  thy  sacred  will ; 
And  all  our  diligence  employ 
Thy  statutes  to  fulfil. 

5  O  then  that  thy  most  holy  word 
Might  o'er  my  ways  preside  ! 
And  1  the  course  of  all  my  life 
By  thy  direction  guide  ! 


PSALM  CXIX.  203 

6  Then  with  assurance  should  I  walk, 

When  by  thy  grace  renew'd  ; 
While  faith  and  hope,  and  love  unite, 
To  prove  my  gratitude. 

7  My  upright  heart  shall  my  glad  mouth 

With  cheerful  praises  fill ; 
When  by  thy  righteous  judgments  taught, 
I  shall  have  learnt  thy  will. 

3  Thy  statutes,  Lord,  I  strive  to  make 
My  study  night  and  day  ; 
O  then  forsake  me  not,  my  God, 
Nor  cast  me  quite  away. 

BETH. PART   II. 

9  How  shall  the  young  secure  their  hearts, 
And  guard  their  lives  from  sin  ; 
Thy  word  the  choicest  rule  imparts 
To    keep  the  conscience  clean. 

10  With  my  whole  heart  I've  sought  thy  face, 

O  let  me  never  stray 
From  thy  commands,  O  God  of  grace, 
Nor  tread  the  sinner's  way. 

11  Thy  word  I've  hid  within  my  heart, 

To  keep  my  conscience  clean, 
And  be  an  everlasting  guard 
From  ev'ry  rising  sin. 

12  O  Lord  to  me  thy  statutes  shew, 

And  heavenly  truth  impart, 
Thy  work  for  ever  I'll  pursue, 
Thy  law  shall  rule  my  heart. 

13  Thy  faithful  words  my  heart  engage 

And  well  employ  my  tongue. 
And  in  my  tiresome  pilgrimage 
Yield  me  a  heavenly  song. 


204  PSALM  CXIX. 

14  I  choose  the  path  of  heavenly  truth, 

And  glory  in  my  choice ; 
Not  all  the  riches  of  the  earth 
Could  make  me  so  rejoice. 

15  The  testimonies  of  thy  grace 

1  set  before  my  eyes  ; 
Thence  I  derive  my  daily  strength, 
And  there  my  comfort  lies. 

16  To  meditate  thy  precept,  Lord, 

Shall  be  my  sweet  employ  ; 
My  soul  shall  ne'er  forget  thy  word., 
Thy  word  is  all  my  joy. 

GIMEL. PART   III. 

17  Be  gracious  to  thy  servant,  Lord, 

Do  thou  my  life  defend, 
That  I  according  to  thy  word 
My  time  to  come  may  spend. 

18  Enlighten  both  my  eyes  and  mind, 

That  so  I  may  discern 
The  wondrous  things  which  they  behold, 
Who  thy  just  precepts  learn. 

1 9  Though  like  a  stranger  in  the  land, 

I  far  away  should  stray, 
Thy  righteous  judgments  from  my  sights 
Remove  not  thou  away. 

20  My  fainting  soul  is  almost  pin'd, 

With  earnest  longings  spent ; 
Whilst  always  on  the  eager  search 
Of  thy  just  will  intent. 

21  Thy  sharp  rebuke  shall  crush  the  proud. 

Whom  still  the  curse  pursues  ; 
Since  they  to  walk  in  thy  right  ways 
Presumptuou  sly  refuse , 


PSALM  CX1X.  205 

22  But  far  from  me  do  thou,  O  Lord, 

Contempt  and  shame  remove  ; 
For  I  thy  sacred  laws  respect 
With  undissembled  love. 

23  Though  princes  oft,  in  council  met, 

Against  thy  servant  spake  ; 
Yet  I  thy  statutes  to  observe, 
My  constant  business  make. 

24  The  testimonies  of  thy  grace 

Afford  my  soul  delight ; 
By  them  I  learn,  with  prudent  care, 
To  guide  my  steps  aright. 

DALETH. PART   IV. 

25  My  soul  lies  cleaving  to  the  dust ; 

Lord,  give  me  life  divine  ; 
From  vain  desires,  and  ev'ry  lust 
Turn  off  these  eyes  of  mine. 

26  When  I  confess'd  my  wand'ring  ways, 

Thou  heard'st  my  soul  complain  ; 
Grant  me  the  teachings  of  thy  grace, 
Or  I  shall  stray  again. 

27  Oh  that  the  Lord  would  guide  my  ways 

To  keep  his  statutes  still ! 
Oh  that  my  God  would  grant  me  grace 
To  know  and  do  his  will ! 

28  Behold  thy  waiting  servant,  Lord, 

Devoted  to  thy  fear  ; 
Remember  and  confirm  thy  word, 
For  all  my  hopes  are  there. 

29  Oh  send  thy  spirit  down  to  write 

Thy  law  upon  my  heart ; 
Nor  let  my  tongue  indulge  deceit, 
Nor  act  the  iiar's  part. 

Ti 


206  PSALM  CX1X. 

30  Didst  thou  not  raise  m    faith,  O  Lord? 

Then  let  thy  truth  appear  ; 
Saints  shall  rejoice  in  my  reward, 
And  trust  as  well  as  fear. 

31  Then  shall  my  heart  have  inward  joy. 

And  keep  my  face  from  shame, 
When  all  thy  statutes  I  obey, 
And  honour  all  thy  name. 

32  How  would  I  run  in  thy  commands. 

If  thou  my  heart  discharge 
From  sin  and  satan's  hateful  chains, 
And  set  my  feet  at  large  ! 

he. — part  v. 

33  Instruct  me  in  thy  statutes,  Lord, 

Thy  righteous  path  display  ; 
And  I  from  them,  through  all  my  life, 
Will  never  go  astray. 

34  If  thou  true  wisdom  from  above 

Wilt  graciously  impart, 
To  keep  thy  perfect  laws  I  will 
Devote  my  zealous  heart. 

35  Direct  me  in  the  sacred  ways 

To  which  thy  precepts  lead  ; 

Because  my  chief  delight  has  been 

Thy  righteous  paths  to  tread. 

36  Do  thou  to  thy  most  just  commands 

Incline  my  willing  heart ; 
Let  no  desire  of  worldly  wealth 
From  thee  my  thoughts  divert. 

37  From  those  vain  objects  turn  my  eyes, 

Which  this  false  world  displays  ; 
But  give  me  lively  power  and  strength 
To  keep  thy  righteous  ways. 


PSALM  CXIX.  207 

38  Confirm  the  promise  which  thou  mad'st, 

And  give  thy  servant  aid ; 
Who  to  transgress  thy  sacred  laws 
Is  awfully  afraid. 

39  The  foul  disgrace  I  justly  fear, 

In  mercy,  Lord,  remove  ; 
For  all  the  judgments  thou  ordain 'st 
Are  full  of  grace  and  love. 

40  Thou  know'st  how  after  thy  commands, 

My  longing  heart  does  pant ; 

O  then  make  haste  to  raise  me  up, 

And  promis'd  succour  grant. 

VAU. PART   VI. 

41  Thy  constant  blessing,  Lord,  bestow^. 

To  cheer  my  drooping  heart ; 
To  me,  according  to  thy  word, 
Thy  saving  health  impart. 

42  So  shall  I,  when  my  foes  upbraid, 

This  ready  answer  make  ; 
"  In  God  I  trust,  who  never  will 
"  His  faithful  promise  break." 

43  Then  let  not  quite  the  word  of  truth 

Be  from  my  mouth  remov'd  ; 
Since  still  my  ground  of  steadfast  hope 
Thy  just  decrees  have  prov'd. 

44  So  I  to  keep  thy  righteous  laws 

Win  all  my  study  bend  : 
From  age  to  age,  my  time  to  come 
In  their  observance  spend. 

45  Ere  long  I  trust  to  walk  at  large, 

From  all  incumbrance  free  ; 

Since  1  resolve  to  make  my  life 

With  thy  commands  agree. 


208  PSALM  CXIX. 

46  Thy  laws  shall  be  my  constant  talk. 

And  princes  shall  attend, 
Whilst  I  the  justice  of  thy  ways 
With  confidence  defend. 

47  My  longing  heart  and  ravish'd  soul 

Shall  both  o'erflow  with  joy  ; 
When  in  thy  lov'd  commandments  I 
My  happy  hours  employ. 

48  Then  will  I  to  thy  just  decrees 

Lift  up  my  willing  hands  ; 
My  care  and  business  then  shall  be, 
To  study  thy  commands. 

2AIN. PART   VII. 

49  According  to  thy  promis'd  grace, 

Thy  favour,  Lord,  extend  ; 
Make  good  to  me  the  word  on  which 
Thy  servant's  hopes  depend. 

50  That  only  comfort  in  distress 

Did  all  my  griefs  control : 
Thy  word,  when  troubles  hemm'd  me  round, 
Reviv'd  my  fainting  soul. 

51  Insulting  foes  did  proudly  mock, 

And  all  my  hopes  deride  ; 
Yet  from  thy  law  not  all  their  scoffs 
Could  make  me  turn  aside. 

52  Thy  judgments  then,  of  ancient  date, 

I  quickly  call'd  to  mind, 
Till  ravish'd  with  such  thoughts,  my  soul 
Did  speedy  comfort  find. 

53  Sometimes  I  stand  amaz'd,  like  one, 

With  deadly  horror  struck, 
To  view  the  state  of  sinful  men 
Who  have  thy  laws  forsook. 


PSALM  CXIX.  209 

54  But  I  thy  statutes  and  decrees 

My  cheerful  anthems  made  ; 
Whilst  thro'  strange  lands  and  desarts  wild* 
I  like  a  pilgrim  stray 'd. 

55  Thy  name,  that  cheer'd  my  heart  by  day/ 

Has  fill'd  my  thoughts  by  night ; 
I  then  resolv'd  by  thy  just  laws, 
To  guide  my  steps  aright. 

56  That  peace  of  mind,  which  has  my  sou! 

In  deep  distress  sustain'd, 
By  strict  observance  of  thy  word 
I  happily  obtained. 

CHETH.— PART   VIII. 

57  Thou  art  my  portion,  O  my  God  ; 

Soon  as  I  know  thy  way, 
My  heart  makes  haste  to  obey  thy  word* 
And  suffers  no  delay. 

58  Hast  thou  not  sent  salvation  down, 

And  promis'd  quick 'ning  grace  ? 
Doth  not  my  heart  address  thy  throne 
And  yet  thy  love  delays. 

59  If  once  I  wander  from  thy  path, 

I  think  upon  my  ways, 
Then  turn  my  feet  to  thy  commands, 
And  trust  thy  pard'ning  grace. 

60  Thou  hast  inclin'd  this  heart  of  mine 

Thy  statutes  to  fulfil ; 
And  thus  till  mortal  life  shall  end, 
Would  I  perform  thy  will. 

61  Let  bands  of  persecutors  rise 

To  rob  me  of  my  right, 
Let  pride  and  malice  forge  their  lies., 
Thy  law  is  my  delight, 


210  PSALM  CXIX. 

62  When  midnight  darkness  veils  the  skies 

I  call  thy  works  to  mind  ; 
My  thoughts  in  warm  devotion  rise, 
And  sweet  acceptance  find. 

63  I'm  a  companion  of  the  saints, 

Who  fear  and  love  the  Lord  ; 
My  sorrows  rise,  my  nature  faints, 
When  men  transgress  thy  word. 

64  Thy  mercies  fill  the  earth,  O  Lord, 

How  good  thy  works  appear  ! 
Open  my  eyes  to  read  thy  word, 
And  see  thy  wonders  there. 

TETH. PART   IX. 

65  With  me  thy  servant  thou  hast  dealt 

Most  graciously,  O  Lord  ; 
Repeated  benefits  bestow 'd, 
According  to  thy  word. 

66  Teach  me  the  sacred  skill  by  which 

Right  judgment  is  attain'd, 
Who  in  belief  of  thy  commands 
Have  hitherto  remain' d. 

67  Before  affliction  stopp'd  my  course, 

My  footsteps  went  astray  ; 
But  I  have  since  been  disciplin'd, 
Thy  precepts  to  obey. 

68  Thou  art,  O  Lord,  supremely  good, 

And  all  thou  dost  is  so  ; 
On  me,  thy  statutes  to  discern, 
The  saving  skill  bestow. 

69  The  proud  have  forg'd  malicious  lies., 

My  spotless  fame  to  stain  ; 
But  my  fix'd  heart,  without  reserve, 
Thy  precepts  shall  retain. 


PSALM  CXIX.  211 

70  While  pamper'd  they  with  prosp'rous  ills, 

In  sensual  pleasure  live, 
My  soul  can  relish  no  delight 
But  what  thy  precepts  give. 

71  'Tis  good  for  me  that  I  have  felt 

Affliction's  chast'ning  rod, 
That  I  might  duly  learn  and  keep 
The  statutes  of  my  God. 

72  The  law  that  from  thy  mouth  proceeds 

Of  more  esteem  I  hold, 
Than  untouched  mines,  than  thousand  mines 
Of  silver  and  of  gold. 

jod. — part  x. 

73  Tome,  who  am  the  workmanship 

Of  thine  almighty  hands, 
The  heavenly  understanding  give 
To  learn  thy  just  commands. 

74  My  preservation  to  thy  saints 

Strong  comfort  will  afford, 
To  see  success  attend  thy  hopes, 
Who  trusted  in  thy  word. 

75  That  right  thy  judgments  are,  I  now 

By  sure  experience  see, 
And  that  in  faithfulness,  O  Lord., 
Thou  hast  afflicted  me. 

76  O  let  thy  tender  mercy  now 

Afford  me  needful  aid  : 
According  to  thy  promise,  Lord, 
To  me  thy  servant  made. 

77  To  me  thy  saving  grace  restore, 

That  I  again  may  live  : 
Whose  soul  can  relish  no  delight 
But  what  thy  precepts  give. 


212  PSALM  CXIX. 

78  Defeat  the  proud,  who  unprovok'd, 

To  ruin  me  have  sought, 
Who  only  on  thy  sacred  laws 
Employ  my  constant  thought. 

79  Let  those  that  fear  thy  name  espouse 

My  cause,  and  those  alone 
"Who  have,  by  strict  and  pious  search. 
Thy  sacred  precepts  known. 

80  In  thy  bless'd  statutes  let  my  heart 

Continue  always  found; 
That  guilt  and  shame,  the  sinner's  lot. 
May  never  me  confound. 

CAPH. PART  XI. 

81  My  soul,  with  long  expectance,  faints, 

To  see  thy  saving  grace  ; 
Yet  still  on  thy  unerring  word 
My  confidence  I  place. 

82  My  very  eyes  consume  and  fail 

With  waiting  for  thy  word  : 
O  !  when  wilt  thou  thv  kind  relief, 
And  promis'd  aid,  afford  ? 

83  My  skin  like  shrivell'd  parchment  shows. 

That  long  in  smoke  is  set ; 
Yet  no  affliction  me  can  force 
Thy  statutes  to  forget. 

84  How  many  days  must  I  endure 

Of  sorrow  and  distress  ? 
When  wilt  thou  judgment  execute 
On  them  who  me  oppress  ? 

85  The  proud  have  diggd  a  pit  for  meu 

That  have  no  other  foes 
But  soch  as  are  averse  to  thee, 
And  thy  just  laws  oppose. 


PSALM  CX1X.  2i; 

86  With  sacred  truth's  eternal  laws, 
All  thy  commands  agree  ; 
Men  persecute  me  without  cause  ; 
Thou,  Lord,,  my  helper  be. 

37  With  close  designs  against  my  life 
They  had  aimost  prevaiFd  ; 
But  my  attachment  to  thy  laws 
Through  grace  hath  never  fail'd. 

S8  Thy  wonted  kindness,  Lord,  restore, 
My  drooping  heart  to  cheer  : 
That,  by  thy  righteous  statutes,  I 
My  life's  whole  course  may  steer, 

LAMED. PART   XII. 

39  For  ever  and  for  ever,  Lord, 

Unchang'd  thou  dost  remain  ; 
Thy  word  established  in  the  heavens, 
Does  all  their  orbs  sustain. 

90  Through  circling  ages,  Lord,  thy  truth 

,  Immoveable  shall  stand, 
As  doth  the  earth,  which  thou  uphold'st 
By  thy  almighty  hand. 

91  All  things  the  course  by  thee  ordain'd, 

Even  to  this  day  fulfil : 
They  are  thy  faithful  subjects  all, 
And  servants  of  thy  will. 

92  Unless  thy  sacred  law  had  been 

My  comfort  and  delight, 
I  must  have  fainted,  and  expir'd 
In  dark  affliction's  night. 

93  Thy  precepts,  therefore,  from  my  thoughts 

Shall  never,  Lord,  depart ; 
For  thou  by  them  hast  to  new  life 
Restor'd  my  dying  heart, 
u 


414  PSALM  CXIX. 

94  As  I  am  thine,  entirely  thine, 

Protect  me,  Lord,  from  harm  : 
Who  have  thy  precepts  sought  to  know, 
And  carefully  perform. 

95  The  wicked  have  their  ambush  laid, 

My  guiltless  life  to  take  ; 
But  in  the  midst  of  danger  I 
Thy  word  my  study  make. 

96  I've  seen  an  end  of  what  we  call 

Perfection  here  below  : 
But  thy  commandments,  like  thyself, 
No  change  or  period  know. 

MEM. PART  XIII. 

97  The  love  that  to  thy  laws  I  bear 

No  language  can  display  ; 
They  with  fresh  wonders  entertain 
My  ravish'd  thoughts  all  day. 

98  Through  thy  commands  I  wiser  grow 

Than  all  my  subtle  foes  ; 
For  thy  sure  word  doth  me  direct, 
And  all  my  ways  dispose. 

99  From  me  my  former  teachers  now 

May  abler  counsel  take  ; 

Because  thy  sacred  precepts  I 

My  constant  study  make. 

100  In  understanding  1  excel 

The  sages  of  our  days  ; 
Because  by  thy  unerring  rules 
I  order  all  my  ways. 

101  My  feet  with  care  I  have  refrain'd 

From  every  sinful  way, 
That  to  thy  sacred  word  I  might 
Entire  obedience  pay. 


PSALM  CXIX.  215 

102  I  have  not  from  thy.  judgments  stray'd, 

By  vain  desires  misled, 
For,  Lord,  thou  hast  instructed  me 
Thy  righteous  paths  to  tread. 

103  How  sweet  are  all  thy  words  to  me ! 

0  what  divine  repast ! 

How  much  more  grateful  to  my  soul 
Than  honey  to  my  taste  ! 

104  Taught  by  thy  sacred  precepts,  I 

With  heavenly  skill  am  blest, 
Through  which  the  treach'rous  ways  of  sin 

1  utterly  detest. 

NUN. — -PART  XIV. 

105  Thy  word  is  to  my  feet  a  lamp, 

The  way  of  truth  to  show  ; 
A  watch-light  to  point  out  the  path 
In  which  I  ought  to  go. 

106  I've  sworn,  and  from  my  solemn  oath 

I'll  never  turn  aside, 
That  in  thy  righteous  judgments  I 
Will  steadfastly  abide. 

107  Since  I  with  griefs  am  so  oppress'd 

That  I  can  bear  no  more  ; 
According  to  thy  word  do  thou 
My  fainting  soul  restore. 

108  Let  still  my  sacrifice  of  praise 

With  thee  acceptance  find  ; 
And  in  thy  righteous  judgments,  Lord, 
Instruct  my  willing  mind. 

109  Though  ghastly  dangers  me  surround, 

My  soul  they  cannot  awe, 

Nor  with  continual  terrors  keep 

From  thinking  on  thy  law, 


216  PSALM  CXIX. 

110  My  wicked  and  invet'rate  foes 

For  me  their  snares  have  laid  ; 
Yet  I  have  kept  the  upright  path, 
Nor  from  thy  precepts  stray 'd. 

111  Thy  testimonies  I  have  made 

My  heritage  and  choice ; 
For  they  when  other  comforts  fail, 
My  drooping  heart  rejoice. 

112  My  heart  with  early  zeal  began 

Thy  statutes  to  obey  ; 
And,  till  my  course  of  life  is  done, 
Shall  keep  thy  upright  way. 

SAMECH. PART   XV. 

113  Deceitful  thoughts  and  practices 

I  utterly  detest ; 
But  to  thy  law  affection  bear 
Too  great  to  be  exprest. 

114  My  hiding-place,  my  refuge-tower, 

And  shield  art  thou,  O  Lord  ; 
I  firmly  anchor  all  my  hopes 
On  thy  unerring  word. 

H5  Hence,  ye  that  trade  in  wickedness, 
Approach  not  my  abode  ; 
For  firmly  I  resolve  to  keep 
The  precepts  of  my  God. 

116  According  to  thy  gracious  word, 

From  danger  set  me  free  ; 
Nor  make  me  of  those  hopes  asham'd 
That  I  repose  in  thee. 

117  Uphold  me,  so  shall  I  be  safe, 

And  rescu'd  from  distress  ; 
To  thy  decrees  continually 
My  just  respects  address, 


PSALM  CXIX.  217 

118  The  wicked  thou  hast  trod  to  earth, 

Who  from  thy  statutes  stray  *d  : 
Their  vile  deceit  the  just  reward 
Of  their  own  falsehood  made. 

119  Vile  as  the  dross  the  wicked  are  ; 

And  those  that  leave  thy  ways 
Shall  see  salvation  from  afar, 
But  never  taste  thy  grace. 

120  I  love  thy  law,  but  still  I  dread 

Lest  1  should  so  offend, 
When  on  transgressors  I  behold 
Thy  judgments  thus  descend. 

ain. — PART  XVI. 

121  Judgment  and  justice  I  have  done, 

O  therefore,  Lord,  engage 
In  my  defence,  nor  give  me  up 
To  my  oppressors'  rage. 

122  Do  thou  be  surety,  Lord,  for  me, 

And  so  shall  this  distress 
Prove  good  for  me  ;  nor  shall  the  proud 
My  guiltless  soul  oppress. 

123  My  eyes,  alas  !  begin  to  fail, 

In  long  expectance  held  ; 
Till  thy  salvation  they  behold, 
And  righteous  word  fulfill'd. 

124  To  me,  thy  servant  in  distress, 

Thy  wonted  grace  display  ; 
And  discipline  my  willing  heart 
Thy  statutes  to  obey. 

125  On  me,  devoted  to  thy  fear, 

Thy  sacred  skill  bestow, 
That  of  thy  testimonies  1 
The  full  extent  may  know. 

U2 


218  PSALM  CXIX. 

126  'Tis  time  for  thee,  O  Lord,  to  work, 

Thy  grace  and  power  employ  ; 
For  men  with  open  violence 
Thy  sacred  law  destroy. 

127  Yet  their  contempt  of  thy  commands. 

But  makes  their  value  rise 
In  my  esteem,  who  purest  gold 
Compar'd  with  them  despise. 

128  Thy  precepts,  therefore,  I  account 

In  all  respects  divine  ; 
They  teach  me  to  discern  the  right, 
And  all  false  ways  decline, 

P£. — -PART  XVII. 

129  The  wonders  which  thy  laws  contain 

No  words  can  represent ; 
Therefore  to  learn  and  practise  them 
My  zealous  heart  is  bent. 

130  The  very  entrance  to  thy  word 

Celestial  light  displays 
And  knowledge  of  true  happiness 
To  simplest  minds  conveys. 

131  With  eager  hopes  I  waiting  stood, 

And  fainted  with  desire, 
That  of  thy  wise  commands  I  might 
The  sacred  skill  acquire. 

132  With  favour,  Lord,  look  down  on  me  ; 

Who  thy  relief  implore  ; 
As  thou  art  wont  to  visit  those 
Who  thy  bless'd  name  adore. 

133  Directed  by  thy  heavenly  word 

Let  all  my  footsteps  be  ; 
Nor  wickedness  of  any  kind 
Dominion  have  o'er  me. 


PSALM  CX1X,  219 

134  Release,  entirely  set  me  free 

From  persecuting  hands, 
That,  unmolested,  1  may  learn 
And  practise  thy  commands. 

135  On  me,  devoted  to  thy  fear, 

Lord,  make  thy  face  to  shine  ; 
Thy  statutes  both  to  know  and  keep 
My  heart  with  zeal  incline. 

136  Mine  eyes  to  weeping  fountains  turn, 

Whence  briny  rivers  flow, 
To  see  mankind  against  thy  laws 
In  bold  defiance  go- 

TSADE. PART  XVIII. 

137  Thou  art  the  righteous  judge  in  whom 

WrongM  innocence  may  trust ; 
And,  like  thyself,  thy  judgments,  Lord, 
In  all  respects  are  just. 

138  Most  just  and  true  those  statutes  were 

Which  thou  didst  first  decree  : 
And  all  with  faithfulness  perform'd 
Succeeding  times  shall  see. 

139  With  zeal  my  flesh  consumes  away, 

My  soul  with  anguish  frets, 
To  see  my  foes  contemn  at  once 
Thy  promises  and  threats. 

140  Yet  each  neglected  word  of  thine 

(Howe'er  by  them  despis'd) 
Is  pure,"  and  for  eternal  truth 
By  me  thy  servant  priz'd. 

141  Brought,  for  thy  sake,  to  low  estate, 

Contempt  from  all  1  find  ; 
Yet  no  affronts  or  wrongs  can  drive 
Thy  precepts  from  my  mind- 


220  PSALM  CXIX. 

142  Thy  righteousness  shall  then  endure 

When  time  itself  is  past ; 
Thy  law  is  truth  itself,  that  truth 
Which  shall  for  ever  last. 

143  Tho'  trouble,  anguish,  doubts,  and  dread, 

To  compass  me  unite, 
Beset  with  danger,  still  I  make 
Thy  word  my  chief  delight. 

1 44  Eternal  and  unerring  rules 

Thy  testimonies  give  : 
Teach  me  the  wisdom  that  will  make 
My  soul  for  ever  live. 

KOPH.— PART  XIX. 

145  With  my  whole  heart  to  God  I  call'd, 

Lord,  hear  my  earnest  cry  ; 
And  I  thy  statutes  to  perform 
Will  all  my  care  apply. 

146  Again  more  fervently  I  pray'd, 

O  save  me,  that  I  may 
Thy  testimonies  fully  know, 
And  steadfastly  obey. 

147  My  earlier  prayer  the  dawning  day 

Prevented,  while  I  cried 
To  him,  on  whose  engaging  word 
My  hope  alone  rely'd. 

148  With  zeal  have  I  awak'd  before 

The  midnight  watch  was  set, 
That  I  of  thy  mysterious  word 
Might  perfect  knowledge  get. 

149  Lord,  hear  my  supplicating  voice, 

And  wonted  favour  shew  ; 

O  quicken  me,  and  so  approve 

Thy  j  udgments  ever  true  • 


PSALM  CXIX.  221 

150  My  persecuting  foes  advance, 

And  daily  nearer  draw  : 
What  treatment  can  I  hope  from  them 
Who  violate  thy  law  ? 

151  Though  they  draw  nigh,  my  comfort  is, 

Thou,  Lord,  art  yet  more  near ; 
Thou,  whose  commands  are  righteous  all, 
Thy  promises  sincere. 

152  Concerning  thy  divine  decrees, 

My  soul  has  known  of  old, 
That  they  were  true,  and  shall  their  truth 
To  endless  ages  hold. 

RESCH. PART   XX. 

153  Consider  my  affliction,  Lord, 

And  me  from  bondage  draw  : 
Think  on  thy  servant  in  distress, 
Who  ne'er  forgets  thy  law. 

154  Plead  thou  my  cause  ;  and  to  my  soul 

Thy  timely  aid  afford  : 
With  beams  of  mercy  quicken  me 
According  to  thy  word. 

155  From  harden 'd  sinners  thou  remov'st 

Salvation  far  away  ; 
'Tis  just  thou  should'st  withdrawfrom  them 
Who  from  thy  statutes  stray. 

156  Since  great  thy  tender  mercies  are 

To  all  who  thee  adore, 
According  to  thy  judgments,  Lord, 
My  fainting  hopes  restore. 

157  A  num'roushost  of  spiteful  foes 

Against  my  life  combine  ; 
But  all  too  few  to  force  my  soul 
Thy  statutes  to  decline, 


222  PSALM  CXIX. 

158  Those  bold  transgressors  I  beheld, 

And  was  with  grief  oppress'd, 
To  see  with  what  audacious  pride 
Thy  cov'nant  they  transgressed. 

159  Yet  while  they  slight,  consider,  Lord, 

How  I  thy  precepts  love  ; 
O  therefore  quicken  me  with  beams 
Of  mercy  from  above. 

160  As  from  the  birth  of  time  thy  truth 

Has  held  through  ages  past, 
So  shall  thy  righteous  judgments  firm. 
To  endless  ages  last. 

SCHIN. PART  XXI. 

161  Though  mighty  tyrants  without  cause 

Conspire  my  blood  to  shed, 

Thy  sacred  word  has  power  alone 

To  fill  my  heart  with  dread. 

162  And  yet  that  word  my  joyful  breast 

With  heavenly  rapture  warms  : 

Nor  conquest,  nor  the  spoils  of  war. 

Have  such  transporting  charms. 

163  Perfidious  practices  and  lies 

I  utterly  detest ; 
But  to  thy  laws  affection  bear 
Too  vast  to  be  exprest. 

164  Seven  times  a  day  with  grateful  voice, 

Thy  praises  I  resound, 
Because  I  find  thy  judgments  all 
With  truth  and  justice  crown'd. 

165  Secure  substantial  peace  have  they 

Who  truly  love  thy  law ; 
No  smiling  mischief  them  can  tempt, 
Nor  frowning  danger  awe. 


PSALM  CXIX.  223 

166  My  God  I  long,  I  hope,  I  wait 

For  thy  salvation  still ; 
While  thy  whole  law  is  my  delight, 
And  I  obey  thy  will. 

167  Thy  testimonies  I  have  kept, 

And  constantly  obey'd ; 
Because  the  love  I  bore  to  them 
Thy  service  easy  made. 

168  From  resignation  to  thy  will 

My  soui  would  not  withdraw, 
Convinced  that  all  my  thoughts  and  ways 
Are  subject  to  thy  law. 

TAU. PART   XXII. 

169  To  my  request  and  earnest  cry, 

Attend,  O  gracious  Lord  : 
Inspire  my  heart  with  heavenly  skill., 
According  to  thy  word. 

170  Let  my  repeated  prayer  at  last 

Before  thy  throne  appear  ; 
According  to  thy  plighted  word, 
For  my  relief  draw  near. 

171  Then  shall  my  grateful  lips  return 

The  tribute  of  their  praise, 
When  thou  thy  counsel  hast  reveaPd, 
And  taught  me  thy  just  ways. 

172  My  tongue  the  praises  of  thy  word 

Shall  thankfully  resound, 
Because  thy  promises  are  all 
With  truth  and  justice  crown'd. 

173  Let  thy  almighty  arm  appear, 

And  bring  me  timely  aid  ; 
For  I  the  laws  thou  hast  ordain 5d 
My  heart's  free  choice  have  made. 


224  PSALM  CXX. 

174  My  soul  hath  waited  long  ro  see 

Thy  saving  grace  restored  : 
Nor  comfort  knew,  but -what  thy  laws. 
Thy  heavenly  laws,  afford. 

175  Prolong  my  life,  that  I  may  sing 

My  great  restorer's  praise, 
Whose  justice  from  the  depth  of  woes 
My  fainting  soul  shall  raise. 

176  Like  some  lost  sheep  I've  stray  ?d,  till  I 

Despair  my  way  to  find  : 
Thou,  therefore,  Lord,  thy  servant  seek, 
Who  keeps  thy  laws  in  mind. 

Psalm  120.    c.  m. 

1  npHOU  God  of  love,  thou  ever  blest, 

X       Pity  my  suffering  state  ; 
When  wilt  thou  set  my  soul  at  rest, 
From  lips  that  love  deceit. 

2  Hard  lot  of  mine  !  My  days  are  cast 

Among  the  sons  of  strife, 
Whose  never-ceasing  quarrels  waste 
My  golden  hours  of  life. 

3  Oh  might  I  fly  to  change  my  place, 

How  would  I  choose  to  dwell 

In  some  wide  lonesome  wilderness, 

And  leave  these  gates  of  hell ! 

4  Peace  is  the  blessing  that  I  seek, 

How  lovely  are  its  charms  ! 
I  am  for  peace  ;  but  when  I  speak, 
They  all  declare  for  arms. 

5  New  passions  still  their  souls  engage, 

And  keep  their  malice  strong : 
What  shall  be  done  to  curb  thy  rage, 
O  thou  devouring  tongue  ! 


PSALM  CXXII.  225 

6  Should  burning  arrows  smite  thee  through, 
Strict  justice  would  approve  ; 
But  I  would  rather  spare  my  foe, 
And  melt  his  heart  with  love. 

Psalm  121.   c.  m. 

1  PT^O  Sion's  hill  I  lift  my  eyes, 

X       From  thence  expecting  aid ; 
From  Sion's  hill,  and  Sion's  God 
Who  heaven  and  earth  has  made. 

2  Thou,  then,  my  soul,  in  safety  rest ; 

Thy  guardian  will  not  sleep  ; 
His  watchful  care  that  Israel  guards, 
Will  thee  in  safety  keep. 

3  Shelter'd  beneath  the  Almighty's  wings, 

Thou  shajt  securely  rest ; 
Where  neither  sun  nor  moon  shall  thee 
By  day  or  night  molest. 

4  From  common  accidents  of  life 

His  care  shall  guard  thee  still ; 
His  hands  from  foes  shall  thee  preserve 
That  lie  in  wait  to  kill. 

5  At  home,  abroad,  in  peace,  in  war, 

Thy  God  shall  thee  defend  ; 
Conduct  thee  through  life's  pilgrimage 
Safe  to  thy  journey's  end. 

Psalm  122.    c.  u, 

1   XT  O  W  did  my  heart  rejoice  to  hear 
X  I      My  friencls  devoutly  say, 
"  In  Zion  let  us  all  appear, 
•"  And keep  the  sojiemnday" 
w 


-26  PSALM  CXXIII. 

2  I  love  the  gates,  I  love  the  road  ; 

The  church  adorn'd  with  grace, 
Stands  like  a  palace  built  for  God 
To  shew  his  milder  face. 

3  Up  to  her  courts  with  joy  unknown 

The  holy  tribes  repair  ; 
The  Son  of  David  holds  his  throne 
And  sits  in  judgment  there. 

4  He  hears  our  praises  and  complaints  ; 

And  while  his  awful  voice 
Divides  the  sinners  from  the  saints, 
We  tremble  and  rejoice. 

5  Peace  be  within  this  sacred  place, 

And  joy  a  constant  guest ! 
With  holy  gifts  and  heavenly  grace 
Be  her  attendants  blest ! 

6.  My  soul  shall  pray  for  Zion  still, 
While  life  or  breath  remains  ; 
There  my  best  friends,  my  kindred  dwell 
There  God  my  Saviour  reigns. 

Psalm  123.   c.  m. 

1  /^  THOU  whose  grace  and  justice  reign 
\^JF     Enthrone  above  the  skies, 

To  thee  our  hearts  would  tell  their  pain, 
To  thee  we  lift  our  eyes. 

2  As  servants  watch  their  master's  hand, 

And  tear  the  angry  stroke  ! 
Or  maids  before  their  mistress  stand, 
And  wait  a  peaceful  look  : 

>  So  for  our  sins  we  justly  feel 
Thy  discipline,  O  Qod  ; 
Yet  wait  the  gracious  moment  still, 
Till  thou  remove  the  rod. 


PSALM  CXXIV.  227 

4  Those  that  in  wealth  and  pleasure  lr 

Our  daily  groans  deride, 
And  thy  delays  of  mercy  give 
Fresh  courage  to  their  pride. 

5  Our  foes  insult  us,  but  cur  hope 

In  thy  compassion  lies  ; 
This  thought  shall  bear  our  spirits  up, 
That  God  will  not  despise. 

Psalm  124.    c.  m. 

1  T*  TAD  not  the  Lord,  (may  Israel  say 
XT!     Been  pleased  to  interpose  ; 
Had  he  not  then  espoused  our  cause, 

When  men  against  us  rose  ; 

2  Their  wrath  had  swallow 'd  us  alive, 

And  rag*d  without  control  : 
Their  spite  and  pride's  united  floods 
Has  quite  o'er  whelmed  our  souh 

3  But  praised  be  our  eternal  Lord, 

Who  rescued  us  that  day, 
Nor  to  their  savage  jaws  gave  up 
Our  threat'ned  lives  a  prey. 

I  Our  soul  is  like  a  bird  escaped 
From  out  the  fowler's  net ; 
The  snare  is  broke,  their  hopes  are  crossed, 
And  we  at  freedom  set. 
5  Secure  in  his  almighty  name 
Our  confidence  remains, 
Who,  as  he  made  both  heaven  and  earth, 
Of  both  sole  Monarch  reigns. 


228  PSALM  CXXVI. 

Psalm  125.    s.  m. 

i    l,1  IRM  and  unmov'd  are  they, 
X       That  rest  their  souls  on  God  : 
Firm  as  the  mount  where  David  dwelt, 
Or  where  the  ark  abode. 

2  As  mountains  stood  to  guard 

The  city's  sacred  ground, 
So  God  and  his  almighty  love 
Embrace  his  saints  around. 

3  What  though  the  Father's  rod 

Drop  a  chastising  stroke, 
Yet  lest  it  wound  their  souls  too  deep, 
Its  fury  shall  be  broke. 

4  Deal  gently,  Lord,  with  those 

Whose  faith  and  pious  fear, 
Whose  hope  and  love,  and  every  grace 
Proclaim  their  hearts  sincere. 

5  Nor  shall  the  tyrant's  rage 

Too  long  oppress  the  saints  ; 
The  God  of  Israel  will  support 
His  children  lest  they  faint. 

6  But  if  our  slavish  fear 

Will  choose  the  road  to  hell, 
We  must  expect  our  portion  there, 
Where  bold  offenders  dwell. 

Psalm  126.   c.  m. 
1  "¥  T  T  HEN  God  reveal'd  his  gracious  name, 
V  V       And  chang'd  my  mournful  state, 
My  rapture  seem'd  a  pleasing  dream, 
The  grace  appear'd  so  great. 


PSALM  CXXVII.  229 

2  The  world  beheid  the  glorious  change, 

And  did  thy  hand  confess  ; 
My  tongue  broke  out  in  unknown  strains, 
And  sung  surprising  grace. 

3  "  Great  is  the  work,  my  neighbours  cry'd. 

And  own'd  the  power  divine  ; 
"  Great  is  the  work,  my  heart  reply 'd, 
11  And  be  the  glory  thine  " 

4  The  Lord  can  clear  the  darkest  skies, 

Can  give  us  day  for  night ; 
Make  drops  of  sacred  sorrows  rise 

To  rivers  of  delight. 
j  Let  those  that  sow  in  sadness  wait 

Till  the  fair  harvest  come, 
They  shall  confess  their  sheaves  are  great, 

And  shout  the  blessings  home- 

6  Though  seed  lie  bury'd  in  the  dust, 
It  sha'nt  deceive  their  hope  ; 
The  precious  grain  can  ne'er  be  lost. 
For  grace  insures  the  crop. 

Psalm  127.  l.  m. 

1  T"\7E  build  with  fruitless  toil  and  cost. 

V  V     Unless  the  Lord  the  pile  sustain  ; 
Unless  the  Lord  the  city  keeps, 
The  watchman  waketh  but  in  vain. 

2  In  vain  we  rjse  before  the  dawn  ; 
In  vain  we  late  to  rest  repair  ; 
Allow  no  respite  to  our  toil, 
And  daily  eat  the  bread  of  care. 

3  Supplies  of  life,  with  ease  to  them, 
The  Lord  to  all  his  saints  bestows  : 
He  crowns  their  labours  with  success, 
Their  nights  with  peace  and  soft  repose 

Wa 


230  PSALM  CXXVIII. 

4  Children,  those  comforts  of  our  life, 
Are  presents  from  the  bounteous  Lord  f 
He  gives  a  numerous  race  of  heirs. 

Of  piety  the  sweet  reward. 

5  As  arrows  in  a  giant's  hand, 

When  marching  forth  equipp'd  for  war. 
Even  so  the  sons  of  sprightly  youth 
Their  parents'  hopeful  safeguard  are 

6  Happy  the  man,  whose  quivers  are 
Replete  with  those  prevailing  arms  ! 
He  need  not  fear  to  meet  his  foe, 
In  strifes  of  law,  or  war's  alarms. 

Psalm  128.   c.  m. 

1  *  I  ^  HE  man  is  bless'd  who  fears  the  Lordfe, 

\_       Nor  only  worship  pays, 
But  keeps  his  steps  confin'd  with  care 
To  his  appointed  ways. 

2  He  shall  upon  the  sweet  returns 

Of  his  own  labour  feed  ; 
Blessed  and  content  in  every  state, 
His  works  shall  all  succeed. 

3  His  wife,  like  a  fair  fertile  vine, 

Her  lovely  fruit  shall  bring  ! 
His  children,  like  young  olive  plants, 
About  his  table  spring. 

4  Who  fears  the  Lord  shall  prosper  thus  \ 

Him  Sion's  God  shall  bless  ; 
And  grant  him  all  his  days  to  see 
Jerusalem's  success. 

5  He  shall  live  on,  till  heirs  from  him 

Descend  with  vast  increase  ; 
Much  bless'd  in  his  own  prosperous  state, 
And  more  in  Israel's  peace. 


PSALM  CXXX.  231 

Psalm  129.    c.  m. 

1  XT' ROM  my  youth  up,  may  Israel  say, 
Jj      They  oft  have  me  assaiPd  ; 
Reduc'd  me  oft  to  heavy  straits, 

But  never  quite  prevaiPd. 

2  They  oft  have  plough'd  my  patient  back 

With  furrows  deep  and  long ; 
But  our  just  God  has  broke  their  chains, 
And  rescued  us  from  wrong. 

3  Defeat,  confusion,  shameful  rout, 

Be  still  the  doom  of  those, 
Their  righteous  doom,  who  Sion  hate, 
And  Sion's  God  oppose. 

4  Like  corn  upon  our  houses  tops, 

Untimely  let  them  fade, 
Which  too  much  heat,  and  want  of  root, 
Has  blasted  in  the  blade. 

3  Which  in  his  arms  no  reaper  takes, 
But  unregarded  leaves  ; 
Nor  binder  thinks  it  worth  his  pains 
To  fold  it  into  sheaves. 
6  No  traveller  that  passes  by, 

Vouchsafes  a  minute's  stop, 
To  give  it  one  kind  look,  or  crave 
Heaven's  blessing  on  the  crop. 

Psalm  130.    s.  m. 
1    TT^ROM  lowest  depths  of  woe, 
JL        To  God  1  sent  my  cry  ; 
Lord,  hear  my  supplicating  voice, 
And  graciously  reply. 


232  PSALM  CXXXI. 

2  Should'st  thou  severely  judge, 

Who  can  the  trial  bear  ? 
But  thou  forgiv'st,  lest  we  despond  ; 
And  quite  renounce  thy  fear. 

3  My  soul  with  patience  waits 

For  thee,  the  living  Lord ; 
My  hopes  are  on  thy  promise  built, 
Thy  never-failing  word. 

4  My  longing  eyes  look  out 

For  thy  enlivening  ray, 
More  duly  than  the  morning  watch 
To  spy  the  dawning  day. 

5  Let  Israel  trust  in  God, 

No  bounds  his  mercy  knows ; 
The  plenteous  source  and  spring  from  whence 
Eternal  succour  flows. 

6  Whose  friendly  streams  to  us 

Supplies  in  want  convey  ; 
A  healing  spring,  a  spring  to  cleanse, 
And  wash  our  guilt  away. 

Psalm  131.  c.  m. 

1  XS  there  ambition  in  my  heart  ? 
X     Search,  gracious  God,  and  see  ; 
Or  do  1  act  a  haughty  part  ? 

Lord,  I  appeal  to  thee. 

2  I  charge  my  thoughts,  be  humble  still? 

And  all  my  carriage  mild  ; 
Content,  my  father,  with  thy  will, 
And  peaceful  as  a  child. 

3  The  patient  soul,  the  lowly  mind,  J& 

Shall  have  a  large  reward : 
Let  saints  in  sorrow  lie  resign'd, 
And  trust  a  faithful  Lord. 


PSALM  CXXXII.  233 

Psalm  132.  c.  m. 

1  T"    ET  David,  Lord,  a  constant  place 
JLj     In  thy  remembrance  find  * 

Let  all  the  sorrows  he  endured 
Be  ever  in  thy  mind. 

2  Remember  what  a  solemn  oath 

To  thee,  his  Lord,  he  swore ; 
How  to  the  mighty  God  he  vow'd.. 
Whom  Jacob's  sons  adore, 

3  I  will  not  go  into  my  house, 

Nor  to  my  bed  ascend  : 
No  soft  repose  shall  close  my  eyes, 
Nor  sleep  my  eyelids  bend  : 

4  Till  for  the  Lord's  design'd  abode 

I  mark  the  destined  ground  ; 
Till  I  a  decent  place  of  rest 
For  Jacob's  God  have  found. 

5  The  appointed  place,  with  shouts  of  joy. 

At  Ephrata  we  found, 
And  made  the  woods  and  neighb'ring  fields 
Our  glad  applause  resound. 

6  O  with  due  rev'rence  let  us  then 

To  his  abode  repair  ; 
And,  prostrate  at  his  footstool  fallen, 
Pour  out  our  humble  prayer. 

PART   II. 

7  Arise,  O  king  of  grace,  arise, 

And  enter  to  thy  rest : 
Lo !  thy  church  waits  with  longing  eyes, 
Thus  to  be  owned  and  blest, 


234  PSALM  CXXXII. 

8  Enter  with  all  thy  glorious  train. 

Thy  spirit  and  thy  word  ; 
All  that  the  ark  did  once  contain. 
Could  no  such  grace  afford. 

9  Cloath  all  thy  ministers  with  grace, 

Let  truth  their  tongues  employ  ; 
That  in  the  Saviour's  righteousness 
Thy  saints  may  shout  for  joy. 

10  Here,  mighty  God,  accept  our  vows, 

Here  let  thy  praise  be  spread  ; 
Bless  the  provisions  of  thy  house, 
And  fill  thy  poor  with  bread. 

1 1  Here  let  the  son  of  David  reign, 

Let  God's  annointed  shine  ; 
Justice  and  truth  his  court  maintain, 
With  love  and  power  divine. 

PART  III. 

12  Blest  Sion  does,  in  God's  esteem, 

All  other  seats  excel ; 
His  place  of  everlasting  rest, 
Where  he  desires  to  dwell. 

13  Her  store,  says  he,  I  will  increase, 

Her  poor  with  plenty  bless  ; 
Her  saints  shall  shout  for  joy,  her  priests> 
My  saving  health  confess. 

14  There  David's  power  shall  long  remain 

In  his  establish'd  line, 
And  my  annointed  servant  there 
Shall  with  fresh  lustre  shine. 

15  The  faces  of  his  vanquish'd  foes 

Confusion  shall  o'er  spread  ; 
Whilst,  with  confirmed  success,  his  crowu 
Shall  flourish  on  his  head. 


PSALM  CXXXV.  235 

Psalm  133.    l.  m. 

1  TT  OW  vast  must  their  advantage  be, 

"J    How  very  great  their  pleasure  prove  9 
Who  live  like  brethren,  and  consent, 
In  tender  offices  of  love. 

2  True  love  is  like  that  precious  oil, 
Which,  pour'd  on  Aaron's  sacred  head, 
Ran  down  his  beard,  and  o'er  his  robes. 
Its  costly  fragrant  moisture  shed. 

3  'Tis  like  refreshing  dew,  which  does 
On  Hermon's  lofty  top  distil ; 

Or  like  the  early  dirops,  that  fall 
On  sacred  Sion's  fruitful  hill. 

4  For  Sion  is  the  chosen  seat, 

The  seat  where  the  Almighty  King 
The  promis'd  blessing  has  ordain'd. 
And  fixed  life's  eternal  spring. 

Psalm  134.    l.  m. 

1  "O  LESS  God,  ye  servants  that  attend 
JL)  Upon  the  Lord's  most  solemn  state  ; 
That  in  his  temple,  night  by  night, 
With  holy  fear  and  reverence  wait. 

2  Within  his  house  lift  up  your  hands, 
And  ever  bless  his  holy  name  ; 
From  Sion  Jbless  thy  Israel,  Lord, 

Even  thou,  who  heaven  and  earth  didst  frame, 

Psalm  135.   p.  m. 

1  T)  RAISE  the  Lord  with  one  consent, 
JL        Magnify  his  holy  name  ; 
Let  the  servants  of  the  Lord 
Still  his  worthy  praise  proclaim. 


236  PSALM  CXXXV. 

2  Praise  him,  ye  that  in  his  house, 

Wait  with  never-ceasing  care  ; 
Praise  him,  ye  that  to  his  courts 
With  religious  zeal  repair. 

3  This  our  truest  interest  is, 

Joyful  hymns  of  praise  to  sing  ; 
With  loud  songs  to  bless  his  name, 
Is  a  most  delightful  thing. 

4  God  his  own  peculiar  choice 

Doth  the  sons  of  Jacob  make  ; 
Israel's  numerous  offyv  ing  too, 
For  his  treasure  he  do      take. 

5  That  he's  great  we  often  have 

By  our  glad  experience  found ; 
We  have  seen,  that  he  with  power, 
Far  beyond  all  gods,  is  crowned, 


PART   II. 


Great  is  the  Lord,  exalted  high 
Above  all  powers  and  every  throne  ; 
Whate'er  he  please  in  earth  and  sea. 
Or  heaven  or  hell,  his  hand  hath  done. 

At  his  command  the  vapours  rise, 
The  lightnings  flash,  the  thunders  roar ; 
He  pours  the  rain,  he  brings  the  wind 
And  tempest  from  his  airy  store. 

'Twas  he  those  dreadful  tokens  sent, 
O  Egypt,  through  thy  stubborn  land  ; 
When  all  thy  first-born  beasts  and  men, 
Fell  dead  by  his  avenging  hand. 

What  mighty  nations,  mighty  kings 
He  slew,  and  their  whole  country  gave 
To  Israel,  whom  his  hand  redeem 'cl, 
No  more  to  be  proud  Pharaoh's  slave  f 


PSALM  CXXXV.  237 

10  His  power  the  same,  the  same  his  grace, 
That  saves  us  from  the  hosts  of  hell ; 
And  heaven  he  gives  us  to  possess, 
Whence  those  apostate  angels  fell. 

PART  III.    c.  M. 

i  1  The  Lord  is  good  ;  and  works  unknown  i 
Are  his  divine  employ  : 
But  still  his  saints  are  near  his  throne. 
His  treasure  and  his  joy. 

12  All  power  that  gods  or  kings  have  claimM 

Is  found  with  him  alone  ; 
But  heathen  gods  should  ne'er  be  nam'd 
Where  our  Jehovah's  known. 

13  Which  of  the  stocks  and  stones  they  trust, 

Can  give  them  showers  of  rain  ? 
In  vain  they  worship  giitt'ring  dust, 
And  pray  to  God  in  vain. 

1 4  Their  gods  have  tongues  that  speechless  prove , 

Such  as  their  makers  gave  ; 
Their  feet  were  never  form'd  to  move, 
Nor  hands  have  power  to  save. 

15  Blind  are  their  eyes,  their  ears  are  deaf, 

Nor  hear  when  mortals  pray  ; 
Mortals  that  wait  for  their  relief, 
Are  blind  and  deaf  as  they. 

16  Ye  servants  of  the  living  God 

Adore  with  faith  and  fear  ; 
He  makes  the  churches  his  abode, 
And  claims  your  honours  there, 


^38  PSALM  CXXXVI. 

Psalm  136.   p.  m. 

1  /"^  IVE  thanks  to  God  most  high, 
VX  The  universal  Lord  ; 

The  sovereign  King  of  Kings  : 
And  be  his  grace  adored. 

His  power  and  grace 

Are  still  the  same  ; 

And  let  his  name 

Have  endless  praise. 

2  How  mighty  is  his  hand  ! 
What  wonders  hath  he  done  1 
He  form'd  the  earth  and  seas, 
And  spread  the  heavens  alone. 

Thy  mercy,  Lord, 
Shall  still  endure ; 
And  ever  sure 
Abides  thy  word. 

3  His  wisdom  framed  the  sun 
To  crown  the  day  with  light  ; 
The  moon  and  twinkling  stars 
To  cheer  the  darksome  night . 

His  power  and  grace 
Are  still  the  same  ; 
And  let  his  name 
Have  endless  praise. 

4  He  smote  the  first-born  sons, 
The  flower  of  Egypt,  dead  ; 
And  thence  his  chosen  tribes 
With  joy  and  glory  led. 

Thy  mercy,  Lord, 
Shall  still  endure  ; 
And  ever  sure 
Abides  thv  word. 


PSALM  CXXXVI.  239 

His  power  and  lifted  rod 
Cleft  the  Red  sea  in  two  ; 
And  for  his  people  made 
A  wondrous  passage  through. 

His  power  and  grace 

Are  still  the  same  ; 

And  let  his  name 

Have  endless  praise. 
But  cruel  Pharaoh  there 
With  all  his  host  he  drowned, 
And  brought  his  Israel  safe 
Through  a  long  desert  ground*. 

Thy  mercy,  Lord, 

Shall  still  endure  ; 

And  ever  sure 

Abides  thy  word. 
The  kings  of  Canaan  fell 
Beneath  his  dreadful  hand  ; 
While  his  own  servants  took 
Possession  of  their  land. 

His  power  and  grace 

Are  still  the  same  ; 

And  let  his  name 

Have  endless  praise. 
He  saw  the  nations  lie, 
All  perishing  in  sin, 
And  pity'd  the  sad  state 
The  ruin'd  world  was  in. 

Thy  mercy,  Lord, 

Shall  still  endure  ; 

And  ever  sure 

Abides  thy  word. 

He  sent  his  only  Son, 
To  save  us  from  our  wo< 


240  PSALM  CXXXVIL 

From  satan,  sin  and  death, 
And  ev'ry  hurtful  foe. 

His  power  and  grace 

Are  still  the  same  ; 

And  let  his  name 

Have  endless  praise. 
10  Give  thanks  aloud  to  God, 
To  God  the  heavenly  king ; 
And  let  the  spacious  earth 
His  worlds  and  glories  sing. 

Thy  mercy,  Lord, 

Shall  still  endure  ; 

And  ever  sure 

Abides  thy  word. 

Psalm  137.   p.  m. 

1  A    LONG  the  banks  where  Babel's  current 
Xjl         flows, 

Our  captive  bands  in  deep  despondence 

strayed, 
While  Z ion's  fall  in  sad  remembrance  rose, 
Her  friends,  her  children  mingled  with  the 

dead. 

2  The  tuneless  harp,  that  once  with  joy  we  strung. 

When  praise  employ 'd,  and  mirth  inspir'd 
the  lay, 
In  mournful  silence  on  the  willows  hung  ; 
And  growing  grief  prolong'd  the  tediousday . 

3  The  barb'rous  tyrants,  to  increase  the  woe, 

With  taunting  smiles  a  song  of  Sion  claim  ; 
Bid  sacred  praise  in  strains  melodious  flow, 
While  they  blaspheme  the  great  Jehovah's 
name. 

4  Buthow,  inheathen  chains  and  lands  unknown. 

Shall  Israel's  sons  a  song  of  Zion  raise  ? 


PSALM  CXXXV1II.  m 

O  hapless  Salem,  God's  terrestrial  throne, 
Thou  land  of  glory,  sacred  mount  of  praise! 

5  If  e'er  my  mem'ry  lose  thy  lovely  name, 

If  my  cold  heart  neglect  my  kindred  race, 
Let  dire  destruction  seize  this  guilty  frame  ; 
My  hand  shall  perish  and  my  voice  shall 
cease  : 

6  Yet  shall  the  Lord,  who  hears  when  Zion  calls, 

O'ertake  her  foes  with  terror  and  dismay. 
His  arm  avenge  her  desolated  walls, 
And  raise  her  children  to  etornal  day. 
Psalm  138.    l.  m. 

1  X  X  J ITH  my  whole  heart,  my  God  and  king 

V  V     Thy  worthy  praise  I  will  proclaim  ; 
Before  the  gods  with  joy  Pll  sing, 
And  ever  bless  thy  holy  name. 

2  Pll  worship  at  thy  sacred  seat, 
And,  with  thy  love  divine  inspir'd, 
The  praises  of  thy  truth  repeat, 

Thy  truth  through  all  thy  works  admired. 

3  Thou  graciously  inclin'st  thine  ear, 
When  I  to  thee  address  my  cry  ; 

And,  when  my  soul  was  press'd  with  fear, 
Didst  inward  strength  to  me  supply. 

4  Therefore  shall  every  earthly  prince, 
Thy  name  with  constant  praise  pursue  ; 
When  thy  bless'd  word  shall  them  convince 
That  all  thy  works  are  just  and  true. 

PART   II. 

3  The  God  of  heaven  maintains  his  state, 
Frowns  on  the  proud,  and  scorns  the  great ; 
But  from  his  throne  descends  to  bless 
The  humble  souls  that  trust  his  grace, 


242  PSALM  CXXXIX 

6  Amidst  a  thousand  snares  I  stand. 
Upheld  and  guarded  by  thy  hand  ; 
Thy  words  my  fainting  soul  revive, 
And  keep  my  dying  faith  alive. 

7  Grace  will  complete  what  grace  begins, 
To  save  from  sorrows  or  from  sins  ; 
The  work  that  wisdom  undertakes. 
Eternal  mercy  ne'er  forsakes. 

Psalm  139.   l.  m. 

1  rTpHOU,  Lord,  by  strictest  search  hast 

JL    My  rising  up  and  lying  down ;    [known 
My  secret  thoughts  are  known  to  thee, 
Known  long  before  conceiv'd  by  me. 

2  Thine  eye  my  bed  and  path  surveys, 
My  public  haunts  and  private  ways  ; 

Thou  know'st  what  'tis  my  lips  would  vent ; 
My  yet  unuttered  words'  intent. 

3  Surrounded  by  thy  power  I  stand, 
On  every  side  I  feel  thy  hand, 

O  skill,  for  human  reach  too  high  ! 
Too  dazzling  bright  for  mortal  eye  ! 

4  O  could  I  so  perfidious  be, 

To  think  of  once  deserting  thee  ! 

Where,  Lord,  could  I  thy  influence  shun  ? 

Or  whither  from  thy  presence  run  ? 

5  If  up  to  heaven  I  take  my  flight, 

'Tis  there  thou  dwell 'st  enthroned  in  light ; 
If  down  to  hell's  infernal  plains, 
'Tis  there  almighty  vengeance  reigns. 

6  If  I  the  morning's  wings  could  gain, 
And  fly  beyond  the  western  main, 
Thy  swifter  hand  would  first  arrive, 
And  there  arrest  thy  fugitive. 


PSALM  CXXXIX.  243 

/  Or  should  I  try  to  shun  thy  sight 
Beneath  the  sable  wings  of  night ; 
One  glance  from  thee,  one  piercing  ray, 
Would  kindle  darkness  into  day. 

8  The  veil  of  night  is  no  disguise, 

No  screen  from  thy  all-searching  eyes  ; 
Thro'  midnight  shades  thou  find'st  thy  way, 
As  in  the  blazing  noon  of  day. 

9  Thou  know'st  the  texture  of  my  heart, 
My  reins  and  every  vital  part : 

Each  single  thread  in  nature's  loom 
By  thee  was  covered  in  the  womb. 
10  I'll  praise  thee,  from  whose  hands  I  came 
A  work  of  such  a  curious  frame  ; 
The  wonders  thou  in  me  hast  shown, 
My  soul  with  grateful  joy  must  own. 

1  i  Thine  eyes  my  substance  did  survey, 
While  yet  a  lifeless  mass  it  lay, 
In  secret ;  how  exactly  wrought, 
Ere  from  its  dark  enclosure  brought. 

12  Thou  didst  the  shapeless  embryo  see, 
Its  parts  were  registered  by  thee  : 
Thou  saw' st  the  daily  growth  they  took, 
Form'd  by  the  model  of  thy  book. 

13  Let  me  acknowledge  too,  O  God, 
That,  since  this  maze  of  life  I  trod  ; 
Thy  thoughts  of  love  to  me  surmount 
The  power  of  numbers  to  recount. 

14  Far  sooner  could  I  reckon  o'er 
The  sands  upon  the  ocean's  shore  : 
Each  morn,  revising  what  I've  done, 
I  find  th'  account  but  new  begun. 

15  The  wicked  thou  shalt  slay,  O  God, 
Depart  from  me,  ye  men  of  blood, 


244  PSALM  CXL. 

Whose  tongues  heaven's  majesty  profane, 
And  take  th'  Almighty's  name  in  vain. 

16  Lord,  hate  not  I  their  impious  crew, 
Who  thee  with  enmity  pursue  ? 
And  does  not  grief  my  heart  oppress, 
When  reprobates  thy  laws  transgress  ?. 

17  Who  practise  enmity  to  thee, 
Shall  utmost  hatred  have  from  me  ; 
Such  men  I  utterly  detest, 

As  if  they  were  my  foes  profest. 

18  Search,  try,  O  God,  my  thoughts  and  heart, 
If  mischief  lurks  in  any  part ; 

Correct  me  where  I  go  astray, 

And  guide  me  in  thy  perfect  way.  , 

Psalm  140.    l.  m. 

1  T>RESERVE  me,  Lord,  from  crafty  foes, 
JL      Of  base  and  treacherous  intent ; 

And  from  the  sons  of  violence, 
On  strife  and  open  mischief  bent. 

2  Their  sland'ring  tongue  the  serpent's  sting, 
Though  keen,  in  sharpness  does  exceed  ; 
Between  their  lips  the  gall  of  asps, 

And  adders'  mortal  venom  breed. 

3  Preserve  me,  Lord,  from  wicked  hands, 
Nor  leave  my  helpless  soul  forlorn, 

A  prey  to  sons  of  violence, 
Who  have  my  utter  ruin  sworn. 

4  The  proud  for  me  have  laid  their  snare, 
And  spread  abroad  their  wily  net ; 
With  traps  and  gins,  where'er  I  move, 
I  find  my  dangerous  steps  beset. 


PSALM  CXLL  .  245 

5  But  thus,  environ'd  with  distress, 
Thou  art  my  only  God,  I  said  : 
Lord  hear  my  supplicating  voice, 
That  calls  aloud  to  thee  for  aid. 

6  O  LorcT,  the  God,  whose  saving  strength. 
Kind  succour  did  to  me  convey  ; 

And  cover'd  my  adventurous  head, 
In  the  fierce  battle's  doubtful  day. 

7  Permit  not  their  unjust  designs, 
To  answer  their  base  heart's  desire  ; 
Lest  they,  encouraged  by  success, 
Should  yet  to  bolder  crimes  aspire. 

8  First  shall  their  chiefs  the  sad  effects 
Of  their  unjust  oppression  mourn  ; 
The  blast  of  their  envenomed  breath, 
Thou  wilt  upon  themselves  return. 

9  They  too,  who  kindled  first  the  flame, 
Shall  first  its  sacrifice  become  ; 

The  pit  which  they  designed  for  me, 
Shall  be  their  own  untimely  tomb. 

10  Though  slanderers'  breath  may  raise  a  storm, 
That  fleeting  brearii  will  quick  decay  ; 
Their  rage  does  but  the  torrent  swell, 
That  bears  themselves  by  force  away, 

1 1  God  will  assert  the  poor  man's  cause, 
And  speedy  help  and  succour  give  ; 
The  just  shall  celebrate  his  praise, 
And  in  his  presence  ever  live. 

Psalm  141.    l.  m. 
1   1^  yf"  Y  God,  accept  my  early  vows, 

JLVjL   Like  morning  incense  in  thine  house. 
And  let  my  nightly  worship  rise 
Sweet  as  the  evening  sacrifice. 


246  PSALM  CXLIL 

2  Watch  o'er  my  lips,  and  guard  them,  Lord, 
From  every  rash  and  heedless  word  ; 

Nor  let  my  feet  incline  to  tread 
The  guilty  path  where  sinners  lead. 

3  Oh  may  the  righteous,  when  I  stray, 
Smite  and  reprove  my  wandering  way  ! 
Their  gentle  words,  like  ointment  shed, 
Shall  never  bruise,  but  cheer  my  head. 

4  When  I  behold  them  prest  with  grief, 
I'll  cry  to  heaven  for  their  relief; 
And  by  my  warm  petitions  prove 
How  much  I  prize  their  faithful  love. 

PART   II. 

5  Around  the  yawning  graves  our  bones 

In  scatter'd  ruins  lie, 
As  thick,  as  from  the  hewer's  axe 
The  severed  splinters  fly. 

6  But,  Lord,  to  thee  I  still  direct 

My  supplicating  eyes ; 
O  leave  not  destitute  my  soul, 
Whose  trust  on  thee  relies. 

7  Do  thou  preserve  me  from  the  snares 

That  wicked  hands  have  laid  ; 
Let  them  in  their  own  nets  be  caught, 
While  my  escape  is  made. 

Psalm  142.    s.  m. 

1  r  |  ^  O  God,  with  mournful  voice, 

X      In  deep  distress  I  pray'd  ; 
Made  him  the  umpire  of  my  cause, 
My  wrongs  before  him  laid. 

2  Thou  didst  my  steps  direct, 

When  my  griev'd  soul  despair'd  ; 


PSALM  CXLIII.  247 

*    For,  where  I  thought  to  walk  secure, 
They  had  their  traps  prepar'd. 

3  I  look'd,  but  found  no  friend 

To  own  me  in  distress  ; 
All  refuge  failed,  no  man  vouchsafed 
His  pity  or  redress. 

4  To  God  at  last  I  prayed  : 

Thou,  Lord,  my  refuge  art ; 
My  portion  in  the  land  of  life, 
Till  life  itself  depart. 

5  Reduc'd  to  greatest  straits, 

To  thee  I  make  my  moan  ; 
O  save  me  from  oppressing  foes, 
For  me  too  powerful  grown. 

6  That  I  may  praise  thy  name, 

My  soul  from  prison  bring  ; 

Whilst  of  thy  kind  regard  to  me 

Assembled  saints  shall  sing. 

Psalm  143.  l.  m. 

1  A  /TY  righteous  judge,  my  gracious  God5 
X V A  Hear  when  I  spread  my  hands  abroad, 
And  cry  for  succour  from  thy  throne, 

O  make  thy  truth  and  mercy  known. 

2  Let  judgment  not  against  me  pass  ; 
Behold  thy  servant  pleads  thy  grace  : 
Should  justice  call  us  to  thy  bar, 
No  man  alive  is  guiltless  there. 

3  Look  down  in  pity,  Lord,  and  see 
The  mighty  woes  that  burthen  me  ; 
Down  to  the  dust  my  life  is  brought, 
Like  one  long  buried  and  forgot. 

I  I  dwell  in  darkness  and  unseen, 
My  heart  is  desolate  within  ; 


248  PSALM  CXLIII. 

My  thoughts  in  musing  silence  trace 
The  ancient  wonders  of  thy  grace. 

5  Thence  I  derive  a  glimpse  of  hope 
To  bear  my  sinking  sprits  up ; 

I  stretch  my  hands  to  God  again, 
And  thirst  like  parched  lands  for  rain 

6  For  thee  I  thirst,  I  pray,  I  mourn  ; 
When  will  thy  smiling  face  return  ? 
Shall  all  my  joys  on  earth  remove. 
And  God  for  ever  hide  his  love  ? 

7  My  God,  thy  loiig  delay  to  save, 
Will  sink  thy  prisoner  to  the  grave  ; 
My  heart  grows  faint,  and  dim  mine  eye 
Make  haste  to  help  before  I  die. 

8  The  night  is  witness  to  my  tears, 
Distressing  pains,  distressing  fears ; 
Oh  might  I  hear  thy  morning  voice, 
How  would  my  wearied  powers  rejoice  I 

9  In  thee  1  trust,  to  thee  I  sigh,  v 
And  lift  my  weary  soul  on  high  ; 
For  thee  sit  waiting  all  the  day, 
And  wear  the  tiresome  hours  away. 

10  Break  off  my  fetters,  Lord,  and  show, 
The  path  in  which  my  feet  should  go  ; 
If  snares  and  foes  beset  the  road, 

I  flee  to  hide  me  near  my  God. 

11  Teach  me  to  do  thy  holy  will, 
^nd  lead  me  to  thy  heavenly  hill : 
Let  the  good  spirit  of  thy  love 
Conduct  me  to  thy  courts  above. 

12  Then  shall  my  soul  no  more  complain, 
The  tempter  then  shall  rage  in  vairi* 
And  flesh,  that  was  my  foe  before. 
Shall  never  vex  my  spirit  more. 


PSALM  CXLIV.  249 

Psalm  144.    l.  m. 

1  T7  OR  ever  bless'd  be  God  the  Lord, 

JL      Who  does  his  needful  aid  impart ; 
At  once  both  strength  and  skill  affords 
To  wield  my  arms  with  warlike  art. 

2  His  goodness  is  my  fort  and  tower, 
My  strong  deliverance  and  my  shield ; 
In  him  I  trust,  whose  matchless  power 
Makes  to  my  sway  fierce  nations  yield. 

.5  Lord,  what  is  man  that  thou  should'st  love 
Such  tender  care  of  him  to  take  ? 
What  in  his  offspring  could  thee  move 
Such  great  account  of  him  to  make  ? 

4  The  life  of  man  does  quickly  fade, 
His  thoughts  but  empty  are  and  vain  ; 
His  days  are  like  a  flying  shade, 

Of  whose  short  stay  no  signs  remain, 

PART   II. 

5  In  solemn  state,  O  God,  descend, 
Whilst  heaven  its  lofty  head  inclines  ; 
The  smoking  hills  asunder  rend, 

Of  thy  approach  the  awful  signs. 

6  Discharge  thy  dreadful  lightning  round, 
And  make  our  scatter'd  foes  retreat ; 
Them  with  thy  pointed  arrows  wound, 
And  their  destruction  soon  complete. 

7  Do  thou,  O  Lord,  from  heaven  engage 
Thy  boundless  power  our  foes  to  quell ; 
And  snatch  us  from  the  stormy  rage 
Of  threatening  waves  that  proudly  swell. 

8  Fight  thou  against  our  foreign  foes, 
Who  utter  speeches  false  and  vain  ; 

Y 


-250  PSALM  CXLV. 

Who  though  in  solemn  leagues  they  close, 
Their  sworn  engagements  ne'er  maintain. 
9  So  we  to  thee,  O  king  of  kings, 

In  new-made  hymns  our  voice  will  raise, 
And  instruments  of  various  stings, 
Shall  help  us  thus  to  sing  thy  praise. 

10  "  God  to  our  rulers  aid  affords, 
"  To  them  his  sure  salvation  sends  ; 
"  'Tis  he,  that  from  the  murdering  sword, 
"  His  faithful  servants  still  defends." 

i  1  Fight  thou  against  our  foreign  foes, 
Who  utter  speeches  false  and  vain  ; 
Who,  though  in  solemn  leagues  they  close, 
Their  sworn  engagements  ne'er  maintain. 

PART   III. 

12  Happy  the  city,  where  their  sons 
Like  pillars  round  a  palace  set, 

And  daughters  bright  as  polish'd  stones 
Give  strength  and  beauty  to  the  state. 

13  Happy  the  land  in  culture  dress'd, 
Whose  flocks  and  corn  have  large  increase ; 
Where  men  securely  work  or  rest, 

Nor  sons  of  plunder  break  their  peace. 

14  Happy  the  nation  thus  endow'd, 
But  more  divinely  blest  are  those 
On  whom  the  all-sufficient  God 
Himself  with  all  his  grace  bestows. 

Psalm  145.    l.  m. 

1  11   If  Y  God,  my  King,  thy  various  prais^ 
1 V X    Shall  fill  the  remnant  of  my  days  ; 
Thy  grace  employ  my  humble  tongue 
Till  death  and  glory  raise  the  song. 

2  The  v.  irt^s  of  everv  hour  shall  bear 
Some  thankful  tribute  to  thine  ear ; 


PSALM  CXLV.  2H 

And  every  setting  sun  shall  see 
New  works  of  duty  done  for  thee. 

3  Thy  truth  and  justice  I'll  proclaim  ; 
Thy  bounty  flows  an  endless  stream  ; 
Thy  mercy  swift,  thine  anger  slow, 
But  dreadful  to  the  stubborn  foe. 

4  Thy  works  with  sovereign  glory  shine. 
And  speak  thy  majesty  divine  ; 

Let  every  realm  with  joy  proclaim 
The  sound  and  honour  of  thy  name* 

3  Let  distant  times  and  nations  raise 
The  long  succession  of  thy  praise  ; 
And  unborn  ages  make  my  song 
The  joy  and  triumph  of  their  tongue, 

6  But  who  can  speak  thy  wondrous  deeds., 
Thy  greatness  all  our  thoughts  exceeds  ; 
Vast  and  unsearchable  thy  ways  ! 

Vast  and  immortal  be  thy  praise, 

PART  II.     c.  M. 

7  Sweet  is  the  memory  of  thy  grace, 

My  God,  my  heavenly  King  ; 
Let  age  to  age  thy  righteousness 
In  sounds  of  glory  sing. 

4  God  reigns  on  high,  but  ne'er  confines 

His  goodness  to  the  skies  ; 
Through  the  whole  earth  his  bounty  shines^ 
And  every  want  supplies. 

9  With  longing  eyes  thy  creatures  wait 
On  thee  for  daily  food, 
Thy  liberal  hand  provides  their  meat, 
And  fills  their  mouths  with  good 

10  How  kind  are  thy  compassions,  Lord  ! 
How  slow  thine  anger  moves  ! 
But  soon  he  sends  his  pardoning  word 
To  eheer  the  souls  he  loves, 


252  PSALM  CXLV. 

1 1  Creatures  with  all  their  endless  race 

Thy  power  and  praise  proclaim  ; 
But  saints  that  taste  thy  richer  grace 
Delight  to  bless  thy  name. 

PART   III. 

12  Let  every  tongue  thy  goodness  speak, 

Thou  sovereign  Lord  of  all, 
Thy  strengthening  hands  uphold  the  weak;. 
And  raise  the  poor  that  fall. 

13  When  sorrow  bows  the  spirit  down, 

Or  virtue  lies  distrest 
Beneath  some  proud  oppressor's  frown, 
Thou  giv'st  the  mourners  rest. 

14  The  Lord  supports  our  sinking  days, 

And  guides  our  giddy  youth : 
Holy  and  just  are  all  his  ways, 
And  all  his  words  are  truth. 

15  He  knows  the  pain  his  servants  feel, 

He  hears  his  children  cry  ; 
And  their  best  wishes  to  fulfil, 
His  grace  is  ever  nigh. 

16  His  mercy  never  shall  remove 

From  men  of  heart  sincere  ; 
He  saves  the  souls,  whose  humble  love 
Is  join'd  with  holy  fear- 

17  His  stubborn  foes  his  sword  shall  slay, 

And  pierce  their  hearts  with  pain ; 
But  none  that  serve  the  Lord  shall  say. 
"  They  sought  his  aid  in  vain." 

18  My  lips  shall  dwell  upon  his  praise, 

And  spread  his  fame  abroad  ; 
Let  all  the  sons  of  Adam  raise 
The  honours  of  their  God. 


PSALM  CXLVI.  253 

Psalm  146.    l.  m, 

PRAISE  ye  the  Lord,  my  heart  shall  join 
In  work  so  pleasant,  so  divine  ; 
Now  while  the  flesh  is  mine  abode, 
And  when  my  soul  ascends  to  God. 

Praise  shall  employ  my  noblest  powers, 
While  immortality  endures  ; 
My  days  of  praise  shall  ne'er  be  past, 
While  life,  and  thought,  and  being  last. 

Why  should  I  make  a  man  my  trust  ? 
Princes  must  die  and  turn  to  dust ; 
Their  breath  departs,  their  pomp  and  power, 
And  thoughts,  all  vanish  in  an  hour. 

Happy  the  man,  whose  hopes  rely 
On  Israel's  God :  He  made  the  sky, 
And  earth,  and  seas,  with  all  their  train, 
And  none  shall  find  his  promise  vain. 
His  truth  for  ever  stands  secure  ; 
He  saves  the  opprest,  he  feeds  the  poor ; 
He  sends  the  lab'ring  conscience  peace, 
And  grants  the  pris'ners  sweet  release.. 

The  Lord  to  sight  restores  the  blind ; 
The  Lord  supports  the  sinking  mind ; 
He  helps  the  stranger  in  distress, 
The  widow  and  the  fatherless. 

He  loves  the  saints,  he  knows  them  well  ; 
But  turns  the  wicked  down  to  hell : 
Thy  God,  O  Zion,  ever  reigns  ; 
Praise  him  in  everlasting  strains, 


Yi 


254  .PSALM  CXLVI1. 

Psalm  147.   l.  m. 

1  "13 RAISE  ye  the  Lord  ;  'tis  good  to  mist 
,  JL      Our  hearts  and  voices  in  his  praise  : 

His  nature  and  his  works  invite 
To  make  this  duty  our  delight. 

2  The  Lord  builds  up  Jerusalem, 
And  gathers  nations  to  his  name  : 
His  mercy  melts  the  stubborn  soul, 
And  makes  the  broken  spirit  whole. 

3  He  form'd  the  stars,  those  heavenly  flames. 
He  counts  their  numbers,  calls  their  names. 
His  sovereign  wisdom  knows  no  bound, 

A  deep  where  all  our  thoughts  are  drown'd. 
i  Great  is  the  Lord,  and  great  his  might ; 
And  all  his  glories  infinite  : 
He  crowns  the  meek,  rewards  the  just, 
And  treads  the  wicked  to  the  dust.  . 

PART  11. 

5  Let  Zion  praise  the  mighty  God, 
And  make  his  honours  known  abroad  ; 
For  sweet  the  joy,  our  songs  to  raise, 
And  glorious  is  the  work  of  praise. 

6  Our  children  live  secure  and  blest ; 
Our  shores  have  peace,  our  cities  rest : 
He  feeds  our  sons  with  finest  wheat, 
And  adds  his  blessing  to  their  meat. 

7  The  changing  seasons  he  ordains, 
The  early  and  the  latter  rains  ; 

His  flakes  of  snow  like  wool  he  sends, 
And  thus  the  springing  corn  defends. 

8  ^rith  hoary  frost  he  strews  the  ground  ; 
His  hail  descends  with  dreadful  sound ; 
His  icy  bands  the  rivers  hold, 

And  terror  arms  his  wintry  cold. 


PSALM  CXLV1IL  255 

«*  He  bids  the  warmer  breezes  blow, 
The  ice  dissolves,  the  waters  flow : 
But  he  hath  nobler  works  and  ways 
To  call  his  people  to  his  praise. 
;0  Through  all  our  realm  his  laws  are  shown  , 
His  gospel  through  the  nations  known  ; 
He  hath  not  thus  reveal'd  his  word 
To  every  land  :  Praise  ye  the  Lord. 

Psalm  148.    l.  m. 

1  T     OUD  hallelujahs  to  the  Lord, 

I  j  From  distant  worlds  where  creatures 
Let  heaven  begin  the  solemn  word,     [dwell ; 
And  sound  it  dreadful  down  to  hell. 

2  The  Lord,  how  absolute  he  reigns, 
Let  every  angel  bend  the  knee  ; 

Sing  of  his  love  in  heavenly  strains,     * 
And  speak  how  fierce  his  terrors  be. 

3  High  on  a  throne  his  glories  dwell, 
An  awful  throne  of  shining  bliss  : 

Fly  through  the  world,  O  sun,  and  tell 
How  dark  thy  beams  compared  to  his. 

4  Awake  ye  tempests,  and  his  fame 

In  sounds  of  dreadful  praise  declare ; 
Let  the  sweet  whisper  of  his  name 
Fill  every  gentler  breeze  of  air. 

5  Let  clouds,  and  winds,  and  waves  agree 
To  join  their  praise  with  blazing  fire  ; 
Let  the  firm  earth  and  rolling  sea, 

In  this  eternal  song  conspire. 

6  Ye  flowery  plains  proclaim  his  skill ; 
Ye  vallies  sink  before  his  eye  ; 
And  let  his  praise  from  every  hill 
Rise  tuneful  to  the  neighboring  sky. 


256  PSALM  CXLVIII. 

7  Ye  stubborn  oaks,  and  stately  pines, 
Bend  your  high  branches  and  adore  ; 
Praise  him,  ye  beasts,  in  diff 'rent  strains ; 
The  lamb  must  bleat,  the  lion  roar. 

8  Ye  birds,  his  praise  must  be  your  theme, 
Who  formed  to  song  your  tuneful  voice  ; 
While  the  dumb  fish  that  cut  the  stream 
In  his  protecting  care  rejoice. 

PART   II.     P.  M. 

9  Ye  kings  and  judges  fear, 
The  Lord  the  sovereign  king ; 
And  while  you  rule  us  here, 
His  heavenly  honours  sing : 

Nor  let  the  dream 
Of  power  and  state, 
Make  you  forget 
His  power  supreme. 

10  Virgins  and  youths  engage 
To  sound  his  praise  divine, 
While  infancy  and  age 
Their  feeble  voices  join : 

Wide  as  he  reigns, 
His  name  be  sung 
By  every  tongue, 
In  endless  strains. 

11  Let  all  the  nations  fear 
The  God  that  rules  above  ; 
He  brings  his  people  near, 
And  makes  them  taste  his  love  : 

While  earth  and  sky 
Attempt  his  praise 
His  saints  shall  raise 
His  honours  high. 


PSALM  CXLTX.  217 

Psalm  149.    p.  m. 

1  ^X  PRAISE  ye  the  Lord, 
\^J  Prepare  your  glad  voice, 
His  praise  in  the  great 

Assembly  to  sing. 
In  our  great  Creator 

Let  Israel  rejoice, 
And  children  of  Sion 

Be  glad  in  their  King. 

2  Let  them  his  great  name 

Extol  in  the  dance  ; 
With  timbrel  and  harp 

His  praises  express  : 
Who  always  takes  pleasure 

His  saints  to  advance, 
And  with  his  salvation 

The  humble  to  bless. 

3  With  glory  adorn'd, 

His  people  shall  sing, 
To  God,  who  their  beds 

With  safety  does  shield  : 
Their  mouths  fill'd  with  praises 

Of  him  their  great  King  ; 
Whilst  a  two-edged  sword 

Their  right  hand  shall  wield 

4  Just  vengeance  to  take, 

For  injuries  past : 
To  punish  those  lands 

For  ruin  design'd. 
With  chains,  as  their  captives^ 

To  tie  their  kings  fast, 
With  fetters  of  iron 

Their  nobles  to  bind. 

5  Thus  shall  they  make  good, 

When  them  they  destroy , 


258  PSALM  CL. 

The  dreadful  decree 

Which  God  does  proclaim  ; 
Such  honour  and  triumph 

His  saints  shall  enjoy. 
O  therefore,  for  ever 

Exalt  his  great  name. 

Psalm  150.    l.  m. 

1  T) RAISE  ye  the  Lord,  all  nature  join 
JL      In  work  and  worship  so  divine  ; 
Let  heaven  and  earth  unite  and  raise 
High  hallelujahs  to  his  praise. 

2  While  realms  of  joy,  and  worlds  around, 
Their  hallelujahs  loud  resound  ; 

Let  saints  below  and  saints  above, 
Exulting  sing  redeeming  love. 

3  High  hallelujahs  well  become 
Vile  prodigals  returned  home  : 

His  mighty  acts,  his  wondrous  grace 
Demand  our  highest  songs  of  praise. 

4  As  instruments  well  tun'd  and  strung, 
We'll  praise  the  Lord  with  heart  and  tongue 
While  life  remains  we'll  loud  proclaim 
High  hallelujahs  to  his  name. 

5  Beyond  the  grave  in  nobler  strains, 
When  freed  from  sorrow,  sin,  and  pains. 
Eternally  the  church  will  raise 

High  hallelujahs  to  his  praise. 


RND  OF  THE  PSALM& 


HYMNS 


AND 


SPIRITUAL  SONGS. 

Hymn  i  to  52,  are  suited  to  the  Heidelbergh  Catechism, 


Hymn  I.   c  m-    Our  only  Comfort. 


'S 


UBSTANTIAL  comfort  will  not  grow 


In  nature's  barren  soil ; 
All  we  can  boast  till  Christ  we  know, 
Is  vanity  and  toil- 

2  But  where  the  Lord  has  planted  grace^ 

And  made  his  glories  known  ; 
There  fruits  of  heavenly  joy  and  peace 
Are  found,  and  there  alone. 

3  A  bleeding  Saviour  seen  by  faith, 

A  sense  of  pard'ning  love  ; 
A  hope  that  triumphs  over  death, 
Give  joys  like  those  above. 

4  To  take  a  glimpse  within  the  vail, 

To  know  that  God  is  mine  ; 

Are  springs  of  joy  that  never  fail, 

Unspeakable  !  divine  !  ,      . 

5  These  are  the  joys  which  satisfy, 

And  sanctify  the  mind  ; 
Which  makes  the  spirit  mount  on  higk, 
And  leave  the  world  behind. 

6  No  more,  believers,  mourn  your  lot, 

But  if  you  are  the  Lord's, 
Resign  to  them  that  know  him  not, 
Such  joys  as  earth  affords. 


260  HYMN  TIL 

Hymn  2.  c.  m.  Conviction  of  Sin  and  Misery  by 
the  Law- 

1  "\  T  AIN  are  the  hopes  the  sons  of  men 

V       On  their  own  works  hive  built ; 
Their  hearts  by  nature  are  unclean, 
And  all  their  actions  guilt 

2  Let  Jew  and  Gentile  stop  their  mouths. 

Without  a  murmuring  word, 
And  the  whole  race  of  Adam  stand 
Guilty  before  the  Lord. 

3  In  vain  we  ask  G  d's  righteous  law 

To  justify  us  now, 
Since  to  convince  and  to  condemn. 
Is  ail  the  law  can  do. 

4  Jesus,  how  glorious  is  thy  grace, 

When  in  thy  name  we  trust ! 
Our  faith  receives  a  righteousness 
That  makes  the  sinner  just. 

Hymn  3.  cm.    Original  Sin, 
i   ^\UR  natural  and  our  federal  head 
\^J    In  Paradise  was  placed, 
In  his  Creator's  image  made, 

With  strength  and  wisdom  graced- 

2  Bless'd  with  the  joys  of  innocence, 

Firm  and  secure  he  stood, 
Till  he  debased  his  soul  to  sense, 
And  ate  the  unlawful  food- 

3  Now  back  with  humble  shame  we  look 

On  our  original ; 
How  is  our  nature  dash'd  and  broke 
In  our  first  fathers  fall ! 

4  To  all  that's  good,  averse,  and  blind, 

But  prone  to  all  that's  ill ; 
What  dreadful  darkness  veils  our  mind  i 
How  obstinate  our  will ! 


HVMN  III.  26 1 

5  Conceived  in  sin  (O wretched  state!) 

Before  we  draw  our  breath, 
The  first  young  pulse  begins  to  bea*: 
Depravity  and  death. 

6  Wild  and  unwholesome  as  the  root, 

Will  all  the  branches  be  ; 
How  can  we  hope  for  living  fruit 
From  such  a  deadly  tree  ? 

7  What  mortal  power  from  things  unclean 

Can  pure  productions  bring  ? 
Who  can  command  a  vital  stream 
From  an  infected  spring  ? 

$  Yet,  mighty  God,  thy  wondrous  love 
Can  make  our  nature  clean, 
While  Christ  and  grace  prevail  above, 
The  tempter,  death  and  sin. 

9  The  second  Adam  can  restore 
The  ruins  of  the  first ; 
Hosanna  to  that  sovereign  power 
That  new-creates  our  dust ! 

part  ii.    p.  m.    We  must  be  born  again, 

10  Hear  the  terms  that  never  vary, 
"  To  repent  and  to  believe  ;" 
Both  of  these  are  necessary, 
Both  from  Jesus  we  receive. 

O  then  sinner  duly  ponder 
These,  in  thine  impartial  mind  : 
And  ne'er  think  to  put  asunder 
What  the  Lord  has  wisely  joiiVd. 

1 1  No  high  words  of  ready  talkers, 
No  mere  doctrines  will  suffice  ; 
Broken  hearts  and  humble  walkers, 
These  are  dear  in  Jesu'a  eyes. 

z 


262  HYMN  IV. 

Tinkling  sounds  of  disputation. 
Naked  knowledge,  all  are  vain  ; 
Every  soul  that  gains  salvation 
Must,  and  shall  be  born  again. 

H  y  m  n  4.    l  .  m .    The  Justice  of  God. 

1  T?  TERN  AL  King !  the  greatest,  best, 
II  j  For  ever  glorious,  ever  blest ; 

The  great  I  AM,  Jehovah,  Lord, 
By  seraphim  and  saint  adored. 

2  Exalted  in  perfections  bright, 
Too  dazzling  far  for  mortal  sight, 

Thou  reign'st  supreme  o'er  those  who  dwell 
In  heaven  above,  on  earth,  or  hell. 

3  Thy  creatures  all  on  thee  depend, 
Their  being's  author,  and  their  end  ; 
The  God  who  made,  upholds  them  still, 
And  rules  them  by  his  sovereign  will. 

4.  Though  cloathed  with  majesty  and  might, 
The  judge  of  all  the  world  does  right. 
In  equal  balance  holds  the  scale 
Where  truth  and  equity  prevail. 

5  Justice,  the  firm  foundation  lays, 

Of  all  thy  laws,  thy  works,  and  ways ; 

Obedient  souls  will  ever  find 

A  God  that's  faithful,  loving,  kind. 

6  But  he  who  sins,  must  die  accursed, 
A  God  all  mercy  is  unjust ; 

Cursed  is  the  man  who  dares  withdraw 
Obedience  from  thy  holy  law. 

7  Where  then,  great  God,  or  how  shall  we 
Approach  thy  dreadful  majesty  ! 

Thy  sacred  law  we  oft  have  broke, 
And  stand  obnoxious  to  thy  stroke. 


HYMN  V.  263 

8  But  O  thou  holy,  just,  and  true  ! 
Though  justice  must  have  all  its  due, 
Thou  canst  be  just,  yet  justify, 

The  soul  that  doth  on  Christ  rely. 

9  O  boundless  wisdom,  love  and  power  ! 
Thy  matchless  mercy  we  adore, 
That  found  out  this  amazing  plan 

To  save  thy  ruined  creature,  man. 
10  We  plead  the  sufferings  of  thy  Son, 
We  plead  his  righteousness  alone  ; 
He  bore  the  curse,  whence  thou  art  just 
In  pardoning  those  who  were  accursed. 

Hymn  5.    l.  m.    A  Saviour  is  necessary, 

1    XT*  NSL  AVED  by  sin  and  bound  in  chains 
jj   Beneath  its  dreadful  tyrant  sway, 
And  doomed  to  everlasting  pains, 
We  wretched  guilty  captives  lay. 

■2  Nor  can  our  arm  procure  our  peace  j 
Nor  will  the  world's  collected  store 
Suffice  to  purchase  our  release  ; 
A  thousand  worlds  were  all  too  poor, 

3  A  Saviour,  man,  and  mighty  God, 
A  glorious  ransom  must  procure  ; 
Justice  divine  demands  his  blood, 
And  nothing  less  can  life  insure. 

4  Jesus  the  man,  the  mighty  God, 
This  all-sufficient  ransom  paid  : 
The  Mediator's  precious  blood 
For  wretched  sinners  has  been  shed 

5  Jesus  the  sacrifice  became, 

To  rescue  guilty  souls  from  hell ; 
The  spotless,  bleeding,  dying  Lamb, 
Beneath  avenging  justice  fell. 


264  HYMN  VI. 

6  Amazing  justice  !  Jove  divine  t 
O  may  our  grateful  hearts  adore 
The  matchless  grace,  nor  yield  to  sin, 
Nor  wear  its  cruel  fetters  more  ! 

Hymn  6.    l.m.    Emmanuel. 

1  "\/f"Y  song  snatt  bless  the  Lord  of  all, 
±VX   My  praise  shall  climb  to  his  abode 
Thee,  Saviour,  by  that  name  I  call, 

The  great  supreme,  the  mighty  God. 

2  As  much,  when  in  the  manger  laid, 
Almighty  Ruler  of  the  sky  ; 

As  when  the  six  days'  work  he  made, 
Fill'd  all  the  morning-stars  with  joy. 

3  Of  all  the  crowns  Jehovah  bears, 
Salvation  is  his  dearest  claim  ; 

That  gracious  sound  well  pleased  he  hears, 
And  owns,  Emmanuel  for  his  name. 
i  As  man,  he  pities  my  complaint ; 
His  power  and  truth  are  all  divine  ; 
As  God  supreme,  he  cannot  faint, 
Salvation's  sure,  and  will  be  mine. 

part  ii.    The  Messiah  is  come. 

ii  Messiah's  come — with  joy  behold 
The  days  by  prophets  long  foretold  ; 
Judah,  thy  royal  sceptre's  broke, 
And  time  still  proves  what  Jacob  spoke 

3  Daniel,  thy  weeks  are  all  expired, 
The  time  prophetic  seals  required  : 
Cut  off  for  sins,  but  not  his  own, 
Thy  prince  Messiah  did  atone. 

f  Thy  famous  temple,  Solomon, 
Is  by  the  latter  far  out- shone  : 
It  wanted  not  thy  glittering  st  jre, 
Messiah's  presence  graced  it  more.-. 


D 


HYMN  VIL  265 

8  We  see  the  prophecies  fulfiU'd 

In  Jesus  that  most  wondrous  child  : 
His  birth,  his  life,  his  death  combine 
To  prove  his  character  divine. 

9  Jesus,  thy  gospel  firmly  stands 

A  blessing  to  these  favour'd  lands  : 
No  infidel  shall  be  our  dread, 
Since  thou  art  risen  from  the  dead. 

Hymn  7.    s.  m.    All  Men  are  not  saved, 
ESTRUCTIONVlangerous  road 
What  multitudes  pursue  ! 
While  that  which  leads  the  soul  to  God, 
Is  known  or  sought  by  few. 

2  Believers  enter  in 

By  Christ,  the  living  door ; 
But  they  who  will  not  leave  their  sii^ 
Must  perish  evermore. 

3  If  self  must  be  denied, 
And  sin  forsaken  quite  ; 

They  rather  choose  the  way  that's  wide* 
And  strive  to  think  it  right. 

4  Encompassed  by  a  throng, 
On  numbers  they  depend  ; 

They  think  so  many  can't  be  wrong, 
And  miss  a  happy  end. 

5  But  numbers  are  no  mark 
That  men  will  right  be  found  ; 

A  few  were  saved  in  Noah's  ark 
For  many  millions  drowned. 

6  Obey  the  gospel  call, 
And  enter  while  you  may  ; 

The  flock  of  Christ  remains  still  small, 
And  none  are  safe  but  they. 


266  HYMN  VII. 

7  Lord,  open  sinners'  eyes, 
Their  awful  state  to  see  ; 

And  make  them,  ere  the  storm  arise* 
To  thee  for  safety  flee. 

part  ii.    Faith, 

8  Faith  !■— 'tis  a  precious  grace, 
Were'er  it  is  bestowed  I 

It  boasts  of  a  celestial  birth. 
And  is  the  gift  of  God ! 

9  Jesus  it  owns  a  King, 
An  all- atoning  Priest, 

It  claims  no  merit  of  its  own, 
But  finds  it  all  in  Christ. 

10  To  him  it  leads  the  soul, 
When  filled  with  deep  distress ; 

Appropriates  his  precious  blood, 
And  trusts  his  righteousness. 

11  Since  'tis  thy  work  alone, 
And  that  divinely  free  ; 

Lord,  send  the  spirit  of  thy  Son 
To  work  this  faith  in  me. 

part  in.    cm.    The  Creed. 

12  In  God  the  Father  I  believe, 

Who  heaven  and  earth  did  frame, 
By  his  almighty  word ;  his  praise 
And  glory  to  proclaim. 

13  With  firmest  confidence  my  soul 

Depends  on  him  alone  ; 
For  he  my  God  and  Father  is, 
Through  Jesus  Christ  his  Son, 

14  His  holy  Providence  upholds, 

And  rules  supreme  o'er  all ; 
I  therefore  will  rejoice  in  him, 
Whatever  doth  befaL 


HYMN  VII.  267 

15  I  do  believe  in  Jesus  Christ, 

His  only  Son,  our  Lord, 
Begotten  from  eternity, 
The  everlasting  word. 

16  Who  was  conceived  by  the  power 

Of  God  the  Holy  Ghost ; 
And  of  the  virgin  Mary  born, 
To  save  that  which  was  lost. 

17  He  under  Pilate's  tyranny, 

To  shame  and  death  was  doomed ; 
Was  crucified  to  prove  his  death, 
He  also  was  entombed. 

18  The  wrath  of  an  offended  God 

On  him,  our  surety,  fell : 
In  soul  distress,  he,  as  it  were, 
Descended  into  hell. 

19  He  rose  the  third  day  from  the  grave, 

A  mighty  conqueror, 
O'er  sin,  death,  hell,  and  all  his  foes, 
And  lives  for  evermore. 

20  He  into  heaven,  most  gloriously, 

In  triumph  did  ascend  ; 
To  plead  our  cause  ;  his  church  to  bless? 
He  sits  at  God's  right  hand. 

21  From  whence  he  shall  appear  again, 

In  splendid  majesty, 
To  judge  the  world  in  righteousness, 
His  saints  to  glorify. 

22  I  in  the  Holy  Ghost  believe, 

A  person  real,  and  one 
In  essence,  power,  eternity, 
With  Father  and  with  Son. 

23  An  holy  catholic  church  I  own, 

The  heirs  of  heaven  design'd  ; 


&8  HYMN  VIII. 

By  union  one  to  Christ  their  head, 
And  one  another  johVd. 

24  Redemption,  through  the  blood  of  Christ, 

I  heartily  embrace  ; 
Even  the  forgiveness  of  my  sins, 
The  gift  of  sovereign  grace. 

25  The  resurrection  of  the  dead, 

Sincerely  I  maintain ; 
My  soul  and  body  glorified, 
With  Christ  shall  live  and  reign. 

26  The  hopes  of  everlasting  life, 

My  fainting  soul  sustain  ; 
Let  God  for  ever  be  ador'd, 
Let  all  men  say,  Amen  ! 

27  To  Father,  Son,  and  Holy  Ghost? 

The  God  whom  we  adore, 
Be  glory,  as  it  was,  is  now, 
And  shall  be  evermore. 

Hymn  8.    l.m.    The  Trinity. 
\  f  I  ^O  comprehend  the  Three  in  One 
JL     Is  more  than  highest  angels  can ; 
Or  what  the  Trinity  has  done 
From  death  and  hell  to  ransom  man. 

2  But  all  believers  this  may  boast 
(A  truth  from  nature  never  learn'd) 
That  Father,  Son,  and  Holy  Ghost, 
To  save  their  souls  are  all  concern'd. 

3  The  Father's  love  in  this  we  find  ; 
He  made  his  Son  our  sacrifice. 
The  Son  in  love  his  life  resigned. 
The  Holy  Ghost  this  blood  applies. 

4  Thus  we  the  Trinity  can  praise 

One  only  God,  through  Christ  our  King ; 


HYMN  X.  269 

Our  grateful  hearts  and  voices  raise 
In  faith  and  love  ;  while  thus  we  sing  ; 

5  Glory  to  God  the  Father  be  ; 
Because  he  sent  his  Son  to  die. 
Glory  to  God  the  Son  ;  that  he 
Did  with  such  willingness  comply. 

6  Glory  to  God  the  Holy  Ghost, 
Who  to  our  hearts  this  love  reveals. 
Thus  God  three-one  to  sinners  lost 
Salvation  sends,  procures,  and  seals. 
Hymn  9.    l.  m.    God  the  Father ',  Almighty 

Creator. 
1      A    LMIGHTY  God  we  praise,  and  owi*, 
XlL   Thee  our  Creator,  King  alone  ; 
All  things  were  made  to  honour  thee, 
O  Father  of  eternity. 

9-  To  thee  all  angels  loudly  cry, 

The  heavens  and  all  the  powers  on  high, 
Cherubs  and  seraphims  proclaim, 
And  cry,  thrice  holy  to  thy  name. 

3  Lord  God  of  hosts  thy  presence  bright 
Fills  heaven  and  earth  with  beauteous  light ; 
The  apostles'  happy  company, 

And  ancient  prophets  all  praise  thee, 

4  The  crowned  martyrs'  noble  host, 
The  holy  church  in  every  coast, 
Their  Maker  for  their  Father  own. 
Now  reconciled  in  Christ  his  Son. 

Hymn  10.    cm.    Providence. 
1  {"^  OD  moves  in  a  mysterious  way, 
VJT     His  wonders  to  perform ; 
He  plants  his  footsteps  in  the  sea, 
And  rides  upon  the  storm, 


270  HYMN  X. 

2  Deep  in  unfathomable  mines 

Of  never-failing  skill, 
He  treasures  up  his  bright  designs, , 
And  works  his  sovereign  will. 

3  Ye  fearful  saints,  fresh  courage  take. 

The  clouds  ye  so  much  dread 
Are  big  with  mercy,  and  shall  break 
In  blessings  on  your  head. 

4  Judge  not  the  Lord  by  feeble  sense, 

But  trust  him  for  his  grace  ; 
Behind  a  frowning  Providence, 
He  hides  a  smiling  face. 

5  His  purposes  will  ripen  fast, 

Unfolding  every  hour ; 
The  bud  may  have  a  bitter  taste , 
But  sweet  will  be  the  flower. 

6  Blind  unbelief  is  sure  to  err, 

And  scan  his  work  in  vain  ; 
God  is  his  own  interpreter, 
And  he  will  make  it  plain. ; 
part  ii.    p.m.    The  Lord  will  provide . 

7  Though  troubles  assail, 
And  dangers  affright, 
Though  friends  should  all  fail, 
And  foes  all  unite  : 

Yet  one  thing  secures  us, 
Whatever  betide, 
The  scriptures  assure  us, 
The  Lord  will  provide. 

8  The  birds  without  barn 
Or  store-house,  are  fed  ; 
From  them  let  us  learn 
To  trust  for  our  bread  : 
His  saints  what  is  fitting, 
Shall  ne'er  be  denied 


HYMN  X,  271 

So  long  as  'tis  written, 
The  Lord  will  provide. 
9  We  may,  like  the  ships, 
By  tempests  be  tost 
On  perilous  deeps, 
But  cannot  be  lost : 
Though  satan  enrages. 
The  wind  and  the  tide, 
The  promise  engages, 
The  Lord  will  provide, 

10  His  call  we  obey, 
Like  Abraham  of  old, 
Not  knowing  our  way, 
But  faith  makes  us  bold  ; 
For  though  we  are  strangers 
We  have  a  good  guide, 
And  trust  in  all  dangers, 
The  Lord  will  provide, 

11  When  satan  appears 
To  stop  up  our  path, 
And  fill  us  with  fears, 
We  triumph  by  faith  ; 
He  cannot  take  from  us, 
Though  oft  he  has  tried, 
This  heart- cheering  promise, 
The  Lord  will  provide. 

12  He  tells  us  we're  weak, 
Our  hope  is  in  vain, 
The  God  that  we  seek 
We  ne'er  shall  obtain  ; 
But  when  such  suggestions 
Our  spirits  have  plied, 
This  answers  all  questions » 
The  Lord  will  provide. 


272  HYMN  XL 

13  No  strength  of  our  own, 
Or  goodness  we  claim, 
Yet  since  we  have  known 
The  Saviour's  great  name 
In  this  our  strong  tower 
For  safety  we  hide, 

The  Lord  is  our  power, 
The  Lord  will  provide. 

14  When  life  sinks  apace, 
And  death  is  in  view, 
This  word  of  his  grace 
Shall  comfort  us  thr  ugh 
No  fearing  or  doubing 
With  Christ:  oi:  our  side, 
We  h(,ptr  to  die  shouting, 
The  Lord  will  provide. 

Hymn  11.    cm.    The  Name  of  Jesus, 

1  f  M  not  ashamed  to  own  my  Lord, 
X     Or  to  defend  his  cause, 
Maintain  the  honour  of  his  word, 

The  glory  of  his  cross. 

2  Jesus,  my  God  !  I  know  his  name  ; 

His  name  is  all  my  trust ; 
Nor  will  he  put  my  soul  to  shame, 
Nor  let  my  hope  be  lost. 

3  Firm  as  his  throne  his  promise  stands. 

And  he  can  well  secure 
What  I've  committed  to  his  hands 
Till  the  decisive  hour. 

4  Then  will  he  own  my  worthless  name 

Before  his  Father's  face, 
And  in  the  new  Jerusalem 
Appoint  my  soul  a  place. 


HYMN  XII.  27S 

part  11.    i.m.    Jesus  the  only  Saviour, 
.5  Jesus,  the  spring  of  joys  divine, 

Whence  all  our  hopes  and  comforts  flow 

Jesus,  no  other  name  but  thine 

Can  save  us  from  eternal  woe. 
\  In  vain  would  boasting  reason  find 

The  way  to  happiness  and  God  ; 

Her  weak  directions  leave  the  mind 

Bewilder'd  in  a  dubious  road. 
7  No  other  name  will  heaven  approve  ; 

Thou  art  the  true,  the  living  way, 

(Ordain'd  by  everlasting  love,) 

To  the  bright  realms  of  endless  day. 

•3  Safe  lead  us  through  this  world  of  night. 
And  bring  us  to  the  blissful  plains, 
The  regions  of  unclouded  light, 
Where  perfect  joy  for  ever  reigns. 

Hymn  12.    cm.    The  Offices  of  Christ. 

1  T  I7E  bless  the  prophet  of  the  Lord, 

V  V       That  comes  with  truth  and  grace  ; 
Jesus,  thy  spirit,  and  thy  word, 
Shall  lead  us  in  thy  ways. 

2  We  reverence  our  high-priest  above, 

Who  offer'd  up  his  blood, 
And  lives  to  carry  on  his  love, 
By  pleading  with  our  God. 

3  We  honour  our  exalted  King ; 

How  sweet  are  his  commands  ! 
He  guards  our  souls  from  hell  and  sin, 
By  his  almighty  hands. 

4  Hosanna  to  his  blessed  name, 

Who  saves  by  glorious  ways  ; 
The  anointed  Saviour  has  a  claim 
To  our  immortal  praise. 

A  A 


274  HYMN  XIII. 

part  ii.    l.m.    The  Christian. 
>  Honour  and  happiness  unite 
To  make  the  christian's  name  a  praise  ; 
How  fair  the  scene,  how  clear  the  light, 
That  fills  the  remnant  of  his  days  ! 

6  A  kingly  character  he  bears, 

No  change  his  priestly  office  knows  : 
Unfading  is  the  crown  he  wears, 
His  joys  can  never  reach  a  close. 

7  Of  God  anointed  from  on  high, 
The  truth  he  boldly  will  profess ; 
He  dares  to  live  and  dares  to  die, 
His  steps  are  dignity  and  grace. 

8  The  noblest  creature  seen  below, 
Ordain'd  to  fill  a  throne  above  ; 
God  gives  him  all  he  can  bestow, 
His  kingdom  of  eternal  love. 

Hymn  13.    l.m.    Christ  the  eternal  Son  of  God. 
i   4T^\  CHRIST  thou  glorious  King,  we  own 

V^/   Thee  to  be  God's  eternal  Son  : 

The  Father's  fulness,  life  divine, 

Mysteriously  are  also  thine. 

2  When  rolling  years  brought  on  the  day, 
Foretold  and  fix'd  for  this  display, 
Thou,  our  deliverance  to  obtain, 
Didst  not  the  virgin's  womb  disdain. 

3  At  God's  right  hand,  now,  Lord,  thou'rt  plac'd, 
And  with  thy  Father's  glory  grae'd, 

There  to  remain  till  thou  shalt  come, 
As  judge  to  pass  our  final  doom. 

4  From  day  to  day,  O  Lord,  do  we 
On  high  exalt  and  honour  thee  : 
Th  We  worship  and  adore, 
World  without  end,  for  evermore.. 


HYMN  XIV.  275 

partii.    cm.    Christ  the  Lord qfhis  People. 
3  Backsliders,  who  your  misery  feel, 
Attend  your  Saviour's  call ; 
Return,  he'll  your  backslidings  heal ; 
O  crown  him  Lord  of  all. 

6  Though  crimson  sin  increase  your  guik; 

And  painful  is  your  thrall  ; 
For  broken  hearts  his  blood  was  spilt ; 
O  crown  him  Lord  of  all. 

7  Take  with  you  words,  approach  .his  thiv 

And  low  before  him  fall : 
He  understands  the  spirit's  groan  : 
O  crown  him  Lord  of  ali. 
S  Whoever  comes  he'll  not  cast  out. 
Although  your  faith  be  situ,: 
His  faithfulness  you  cannot  doubt ; 

0  crown  him  Lord  of  all. 

Hymn  14.    l.  m.    The  Incarnation, 

1  f  |  ^HE  Virgin's  promis'd  Son  is  born  ; 

1  Behold  the  expected  child  appear 
Let  infidels  forbear  their  scorn, 

For  God  himseif  approaches  near, 

2  The  government  of  earth  and  seas 
Upon  his  shoulders  shall  be  laid  ; 
His  wide  dominions  shall  increase, 
And  honours  to  his  name  be  paid. 

3  Jesus  the  holy  child  shall  sit 
High  on  his  Father  David's  throne, 
Shall  crush  his  foes  beneath  bis  feet, 
And  reign  to  ages  yet  unknown. 

part  ii.    p.m.    The  eternal  Son  of  God  too  :< 

upon  him  the  very  Nature  of  Man. 
I  God  with  us  !  O  glorious  name  ! 
Let  it  shine  in  endless  fame  : 


276  HYMN  XIV. 

God  ar  f '         in  Canst  unite, 
O  my  st  dc  pt  h  a; id  height ! 

5  God  with  us  I  the  eternal  Son 
Took  our  soul,  our  flesh,  and  bone  : 
Now,  ye  sainrs,  his  grace  admire, 
Sweli  the  song  with  holy  fire. 

S  Gr hi  with  us  !  but  tainted  not 
With  the  first  transgressor's  blot ; 
Yet  did  he  our  sins  sustain, 
Bear  the  guilt,  the  curse,  the  pain. 

7  God  with  us  !  O  wondrous  grace  ! 
Let  us  see  him  face  to  face, 

That  we  may  Emmanuel  sing, 
As  we  ought,  our  God  and  King. 

fcARTiu.    cm.    The  Media  tor  born  for  gfot  i  • 
ous  Purposes. 

8  Hark  the  glad  sound  !  the  Saviour's  come  ! 

The  Saviour  promis'd  long  ! 
Let  every  heart  prepare  a  throne. 
And  every  voice  a  song. 

9  On  him  the  Spirit  largely  pour'd 

Exerts  its  sacred  fire  ; 
Wisdom  and  might,  and  zeal  and  love 
His  holy  breast  inspire. 

10  He  comes  the  prisoners  to  release, 
In  satan's  bondage  held  ; 
The  gates  of  brass  before  him  burst, 
The  iron  fetters  yield, 
i  1  He  comes  from  thickest  films  of  vice 
To  clear  the  mental  ray, 
And  on  the  eye-balls  of  the  blind 
To  pour  celestial  day, 

12  He  comes  the  broken  heart  to  bi' 
The  bleeding  soul  to  cure, 


HYMN  XV. 

And  with  his  righteousness  and  grace 
To  enrich  the  humble  poor. 

13  His  gospel  trumpets  publish  loud 

The  jubilee  of  the  Lord  ; 
His  people  are  redeemed  now, 
Their  heritage  restored. 

14  Our  glad  Hos annas,  Prince  of  peace, 

Thy  welcome  shall  proclaim  ; 
And  heaven's  eternal  arches  ring 
With  thy  beloved  name. 

Hymn  15.    l.  m.    He  suffered. 
1    S^\  LORD,  when  faith  with  fixed  eyes 
V_y    Beholds  thy  wondrous  sacrifice, 
Love  rises  to  an  ardent  flame, 
And  we  all  other  hope  disclaim. 
3  With  cold  affections  who  can  see 

The  thorns,  the  scourge,  the  nails,  the  tree. 
The  flowing  tears,  and  crimson  sweat, 
Thy  bleeding  hands,  and  head,  and  feet ! 

3  Jesus,  what  millions  of  our  race 
Have  been  the  triumphs  of  thy  grace, 
And  millions  more  to  thee  shall  fly, 
And  on  thy  sacrifice  rely. 

4  The  sorrow,  shame  and  death  were  thine, 
And  all  the  stores  of  wrath  divine  ! 

Ours  are  the  pardon,  life  and  bliss  : 
What  love  can  be  compared  to  this  ! 
part  ii.    He  was  crucified. 

5  Stretched  on  the  cross  the  Saviour  dies, 
Hark  !  his  expiring  groans  arise  ! 

See,  from  his  hands,  his  feet,  his  side, 
Runs  down  the  sacred  crimson  tide  ! 

6  Believers  now,  behold  the  man, 
The  man  of  grief  condemn'd*for  you., 

Aa: 


US  HYMN  XVI. 

The  Lamb  of  God  for  sinners  slaiu. 
Weeping  to  Calvary  pursue. 

7  His  sacred  limbs  they  stretch,  they  tear. 
With  nails  they  fasten  to  the  wood — 
His  sacred  limbs- — exposed  and  bare, 
Or  only  covered  with  his  blood. 

8  See  there  !  his  temples  crowned  with  thorns^ 
His  bleeding  hands  extended  wide, 

His  streaming  feet  transfixed  and  torn, 
The  fountain  gushing  from  his  side. 

&  Thou  dear,  thou  suffering  Son  of  God, 
How  doth  thy  heart  to  sinners  move  ! 
Sprinkle  on  us  thy  precious  blood, 
Constrain  us  with  thy  dying  love  ! 

Hymn  16.    l.  m.    The  death  of  Christ  was  ne- 
cessary. 

1  TMMORTAL  God,  on  thee  we  call, 
J_  The  great  original  of  all ; 
Through  thee  we  are,  to  thee  we  tend, 
Our  sure  support,  our  glorious  end. 

2  We  praise  that  wise  mysterious  grace, 
That  pitied  our  revolted  race, 

And  Jesus  our  great  covenant-head, 
The  captain  of  salvation  made. 

3  Thy  justice  doom'd  that  he  must  die, 
Who  for  our  sins  would  satisfy  ; 
His  death  was  therefore  fixed  of  old, 
And  in  thy  word  of  truth  foretold. 

4  A  scene  of  wonders  here  we  see, 
Worthy  thy  Son,  and  worthy  thee  ; 

And  while  this  theme  employs  our  tongues, 
All  heaven  unites  its  sweetest  songs. 
part  ii.    Death  to  the  Believer  desirable* 
$  While  on  the  verge  of  lilt  i  stand, 
And  view  the  scene  on  either  hand, 


HYMN  XVI.  279 

My  spirit  struggles  with  my  clay, 
And  longs  to  wing  its  flight  away. 
3  Where  Jesus  dwells  my  soul  would  be  ; 
And  faints  my  much-lov'd  Lord  to  see  ; 
Earth,  twine  no  more  about  my  heart. 
For  'tis  far  better  to  depart. 

7  Come,  ye  angelic  envoys,  come, 
And  lead  the  willing  pilgrim  home  ! 
Ye  know  the  way  to  Jesus'  throne, 
Source  of  my  joys,  and  of  your  own, 

3  That  blissful  interview,  how  sweet ! 
To  fall  transported  at  his  feet ! 
Rais'd  in  his  arms,  to  view  his  face, 
Through  the  full  beamings  of  his  grace  ! 

9  As  with  a  Seraptis  voice  to  sing  \ 
To  fly  as  on  a  Cherub's  wing  1 
Performing,  with  unwearied  hands, 
The  present  Saviour's  high  commands* 

10  Yet,  with  these  prospects  full  in  sight, 
We'll  wait  thy  signal  for  the  flight ; 
For  while  thy  service  we  pursue, 
We  find  a  heaven  in  all  we  do. 

part  in.    cm.    He  descended  into  Het% 

11  And  did  the  holy  and  the  just, 

The  Sovereign  of  the  skies, 
Stoop  down  to  wretchedness  and  dust, 
That  guilty  worms  might  rise  ? 

12  Yes,  the  Redeemer  in  his  soul 

Sustained  the  pains  of  hell  ; 
The  wrath  of  God  without  control, 
On  him  our  surety  fell. 

13  He  took  the  dying  sinner's  place, 

And  sufter'd  in  his  stead  ; 


280  HYMN  XVII. 

For  man  (O  miracle  of  grace  ! ) 
For  man  the  Saviour  bled  ! 

14  Dear  Lord,  what  heavenly  wonders  dwelt 

In  thy  atoning  blood  ! 
By  this  are  sinners  snatch'd  from  hell, 
And  rebels  brought  to  God. 

15  Jesus,  my  soul  adoring,  bends, 

To  love  so  full,  so  free  ; 
And  may  I  hope  that  love  extends 
Its  sacred  power  to  me  1 

16  What  glad  return  can  I  impart 

For  favours  so  divine  ? 
O  take  my  all — this  worthless  heart, 
And  make  it  only  thine. 

Hymn  17.    l.  m.    The  Resurrection  of  Christ. 

1  '^  I  ^lSJinished,  the  Redeemer  cries  ; 

J_      Then  lowly  bows  his  fainting  head  ; 
And  soon  the  expiring  sacrifice 
Sinks  to  the  regions  of  the  dead. 

2  'Tis  done — the  mighty  work  is  done  !   ' 

For  men  or  angels  much  too  great ; 
Which  none,  but  God's  eternal  Son, 
Or  would  attempt  or  could  complete. 

3  yTis  done — old  things  are  past  away, 

And  a  new  state  of  things  begun  ; 
A  kingdom  which  shall  ne'er  decay, 
But  shall  out-last  the  circling  sun. 

4  A  new  account  of  time  begins, 

Now  our  dear  Lord  resumes  his  breath, 
Charg'd  with  our  sorrows  and  our  sins, 
Our  lives  to  ransom  by  his  death. 

3  Once  he  was  dead,  but  now  he  reigns, 
He  lives,  he  lives,  he  lives  again  : 


HYMN  XIX.  281 

Let's  tell  our  joys  in  pious  strains, 

And  spread  the  glon  of hi*  name. 
Hymn  18.    l.  m.    He  ascended  into  Heaven; 

1  ^AUR  Lord  is  risen  from  the  dea& 
\_J  Our  Jesus  is  gone  up  on  high  ; 
The  powers  of  hell  are  captive  led, 
Dragg'd  to  the  portals  of  the  sky. 

2  There  his  triumphal  chariot  waits, 
And  angeis  chant  the  solemn  lay  ; 

"  Lift  up  your  heads,  ye  heavenly  gates* 
t{  Ye  everlasting  doors,  give  way  I" 

3  Loose  all  your  bars  of  massy  light, 
And  wide  unfold  the  radiant  scene  ; 
He  claims  those  mansions  as  his  right, 
Receive  the  King  of  glory  in. 

4  "  Who  is  the  King  of  glory,  who  ?" 
The  Lord  that  all  his  foes  o'ercame, 
The  world,  sin,  death,  and  hell  o'erthrew* 
And  Jesus  is  the  conqueror's  name. 

5  Lo  !  his  triumphant  chariot  waits, 
And  angels  chant  the  solemn  lay, 

"  Lift  up  your  heads,  ye  heavenly  gates  ! 
"  Ye  everlasting  doors  give  way  !" 

6  "  Who  is  the  King  of  glory,  who  ?" 
The  Lord  of  boundless  power  possest, 
The  King  of  saints  and  angeis  too, 
God  over  all,  for  ever  blest ! 

Hymn  19.    l.m.    He  sitteth  at  the  right  hand 
of  God. 

\    TESUS  the  Lord  our  souls  adore, 
J     A  painful  suff'rer  now  no  more  ; 
High  on  his  Father's  throne  he  reigns 
O'er  earth,  and  heaven's  extensive  plains1. 


282  HYMN  XIX. 

2  His  race  for  ever  is  complete  ; 
For  ever  undisturb'd  his  seat ; 
Myriads  of  angels  round  him  fly, 
And  sing  his  well-gain'd  victory. 

3  Yet  'midst  the  honours  of  his  throne,, 
He  joys  not  for  himself  alone  ; 

His  meanest  servants  share  their  part, 
Share  in  that  royal  tender  heart. 

4  Raise,  raise,  my  soul,  thy  raptur'd  sight 
With  sacred  wonder  and  delight ; 
Jesus  at  God's  right  hand  now  see 
Enter'd  within  the  vail  for  thee. 

part  ii.     Christ  will  come  to  judge  the  World*. 

5  Now  to  the  Lord,  that  made  us  know 
The  wonders  of  his  dying  love, 

Be  humble  honours  paid  below, 
And  strains  of  nobler  praise  above. 

6  'Twas  he  that  cleans'd  our  foulest  sins, 
And  wash'd  us  in  his  richest  blood  ; 
?Tis  he  that  makes  us  priests  and  kings 
And  brings  us  rebels  near  to  God. 

7  To  Jesus,  our  atoning  Priest, 
To  Jesus,  our  superior  King, 
Be  everlasting  power  confessed, 
And  every  tongue  his  glory  sing. 

3  Behold,  on  flying  clouds  he  comes, 
And  every  eye  shall  see  his  face  ; 
Though  with  our  sins  we  pierced  him  once  \ 
He  now  displays  his  pardoning  grace. 

9  The  unbelieving  world  shall  wail, 
While  we  rejoice  to  see  the  day, 
Come,  Lord:  nor  let  thy  promise  fail. 
Nor  let  thy  chariots  long  delay. 


HYMN  XXI.  2S3 

Hymn  20.    l.  m.    God  the  Holy  Ghost. 
1    "T7*  TERNAL  Spirit !  we  confess 

|j   And  sing  the  wonders  of  thy  grace  ; 
Thy  power  conveys  our  blessings  down 
From  God  the  Father  and  the  Son. 

3  Enlighten'd  by  thine  heavenly  ray, 
Our  shades  and  darkness  turn  to  day  i 
We  learn  the  meaning  of  thy  word, 
And  find  salvation  in  the  Lord. 

>  Thy  power  and  glory  works  within, 
And  breaks  the  chains  of  reigning  sin '; 
Doth  our  imperious  lusts  subdue, 
And  forms  our  wretched  hearts  anew. 

4  The  troubled  conscience  knows  thy  voice, 
Thy  cheering  words  awake  our  joys  ; 
Thy  words  allay  the  stormy  wind, 

And  calm  the  surges  of  the  mind. 

Hymn  21.    l.m.    The  Church. 

1  \  T  T  E  are  a  garden  wailed  around, 

V  V      Chosen  and  made  peculiar  ground*; 
A  little  spot  enclosed  by  grace, 
Out  of  the  world's  wide  wilderness. 

2  Like  trees  of  myrrh  and  spice,  we  standi 
Planted  by  God  the  Father's  hand  ; 
And  all  his  springs  in  Sion  flow, 

To  make  the  young  plantation  grow. 

3  Awake,  O  heavenly  wind,  and  come, 
Blow  on  this  garden  of  perfume  ; 
Spirit  divine,  descend,  and  breathe 

A  gracious  gale  on  plants  beneath. 

4  Make  our  best  spices  flow  abroad, 
To  entertain  our  Saviour,  God  : 
And  faith,  and  love,  and  joy  appear, 
And  every  grace  be  active  here. 


284  HYMN  XXI. 

part  II.    s.  m.    Communion  of  Saijtfn 

5  Blest  be  the  tie  that  binds 
Our  hearts  in  christian  love  ; 

The  fellowship  of  kindred  minds 
Is  like  to  that  above. 

6  Before  our  Father's  throne 
We  pour  our  ardent  prayers  ; 

Our  fears,  our  hopes,  our  aims  are  one. 
Our  comforts  and  our  cares. 

7  We  share  our  mutual  woes ; 
Our  mutual  burdens  bear  ; 

And  often  for  each  other  flows 
The  sympathizing  tear. 

8  Allied  to  Christ  our  head, 
We  act,  we  grow,  and  thrive  ; 

Nor  will  he  leave  us  with  the  dead. 
While  he  remains  alive. 

9  This  glorious  hope  revives 
Our  courage  by  the  way  ; 

While  each  in  expectation  lives, 
And  longs  to  see  the  day. 

10  From  sorrow,  toil,  and  pain, 
And  sin  we  shall  be  free  ; 

And  perfect  love  and  friendship  reign 
Through  all  eternity. 

part  in.   l.m.   Forgiven  ess  of  Sins* 

11  Supreme  in  mercy,  who  shall  dare 
With  thy  compassion  to  compare  ; 
For  Jesus'  sake  thou  dost  forgive, 
And  bid  the  trembling  sinner  live. 

12  Millions  of  our  transgressions  past, 
C.uicelled  behind  thy  back  are  cast ; 
Thy  grace,  a  sea  without  a  shore, 
O'erflows  them,  and  thev  rise  no  more. 


HYMN  XXIL  28  5 

*j   And  test  new  legions  shall  invade, 
And  make  the  pardoned  soul  afraid, 
Our  inbred  llists  thou  wilt  subdue, 
And  form  degenerate  hearts  anew. 

i  4  Thy  truth  to  Jacob  shall  prevail , 
Thy  oath  to  Abraham  cannot  fail ; 
The  hop  j  of  saints  in  ancient  days, 
Which  ages  yet  unborn  shall  praise. 

Hymn  22.    l.  m.    Resurrection  of  the  Dead 
\     \\  LFST  Jesus,  source  of  every  grace, 
J3   From  far  to  view  thy  smiling  face, 
While  absent  thus  by  faith  we  live, 
seeds  all  joy  that  faith  can  give. 
■2  But  O  !  what  extacy  unknown 

Fills  the  wide  circle  round  thy  throne, 
Where  every  rapturous  hour  appears 
Nobler  than  millions  of  our  3  cars  ! 

Millions  by  millions  multiplied, 
Shall  ne'er  thy  saints  from  thee  divid, , 
But  the  bright  legions  live  and  praise 
Through  ail  thy  own  immortal  days. 

4  O  happy  dead,  in  thee  that  sleep, 

While  o'er  their  mouldering-  dust  we  weep  * 
O  faithful  Saviour,  who  shaft  come 
That  dust  to  ransom  from  the  tomb  ! 

5  While  thine  unerring  word  imparts 
So  rich  a  cordial  to  our  hearts, 

Through  tears  our  triumphs  shall  be  shown, 
Though  round  their  graves,  and  near  our  own 

1  -i.    G.-Jtfi    Life  everlasting. 

6  A.  grace:!  (how  sweet  the  sound  \) 

That  saved  a  wretch  like  me  ! 


^tfb  HYMN    AA111. 

I  once  was  lost,  but  now  am  found, 
Was  blind,  but  now  I  see. 
7  'Twas  grace  that  taught  my  heart  to  fear, 
And  grace  my  fears  relieved  ; 
How  precious  did  that  grace  appear, 
The  hour  I  first  believed  ! 
3  Through  many  dangers,  toils  and  snares, 
I  have  already  come  ; 
'Tis  grace  has  brought  me  safe  thus  far, 
And  grace  will  lead  me  home. 

9  The  Lord  has  promised  good  to  me, 
His  word  my  hope  secures  ; 
He  will  my  shield  and  portion  be, 
As  long  as  life  endures. 

10  Yes,  when  this  flesh  and  heart  shall  fail, 

And  mortal  life  shall  cease ; 
I  shall  possess  within  the  vail, 
A  life  of  joy  and  peace. 

1 1  There  joys  unseen  by  mortal  eyes, 

Or  reason's  feeble  ray, 
In  ever  blooming  prospects  rise, 
Unconscious  of  decay. 

\2  Then  now  on  faith's  sublimest  wing, 
Let  ardent  wishes  rise 
To  those  bright  scenes  where  pleasures  spring, 
Immortal  in  the  skies. 

H y  m  n  23 .    l .  m .    Justification. 
I    X     ORD,  thy  imputed  righteousness 

Jl-J   My  beauty  is,  my  glorious  dress  ; 

?  Midst  flaming  worlds  in  this  arrayed, 

With  joy  shall  I  lift  up  my  head. 
3  When  from  the  dust  of  death  I  rise^ 

To  take  my  mansion  in  the  skies', 


HYMN  XXIV.  28' 

E'en  then  shall  this  be  all  my  plea, 
"  Jesus  hath  liv'd  and  died  for  me." 

3  Bold  shall  I  stand  in  that  great  day, 
-For  who  aught  to  my  charge  shall  lay  ? 
While  through  thy  blood  absolv'd  I  am, 
From  sin's  tremendous  curse  and  shame/ 

4  Thus  Abraham  the  friend  of  God, 
Thus  all  the  armies  bought  with  bloo^? 
By  faith  on  thee  alone  relied, 

And  in  the  Lord  were  justified. 

5  This  spotless  robe  the  same  appears 
When  ruined  nature  sinks  in  years  : 
No  age  can  change  its  glorious  hue, 
The  robe  of  Christ  is  ever  new. 

6  O !  let  the  dead  now  hear  thy  voice  ! 
Bid,  Lord,  thy  mourning  ones  rejoice  ; 
Their  beauty  this,  their  glorious  dress, 
"  Jesus,  the  Lord  our  righteousness." 

Hymn  24.    l.  m.    Our  Works  are  no  part  qfow 
.    Righteousness  before  God. 

1  '^TO  more,  my  God,  1  boast  no  more 
Jj^l    Of  all  the  duties  1  have  done  ; 

I  quit  the  hopes  I  held  before, 
To  trust  the  merits  of  thy  Son. 

2  Now,  for  the  love  I  bear  his  name. 
What  was  my  gain,  I  count  my  loss  ; 
My  former  pride  I  call  my  shame, 
And  nail  my  glory  to  his  cross. 

3  Yes,  and  I  must  and  will  esteem 
All  things  but  loss  for  Jesus'  sake  ; 
O  may  my  soul  be  found  in  him, 
And  of  his  righteousness  partake  ! 

4  The  best  obedience  of  my  hands 
Dares  not  appear  before  thy  throne  ; 


238  HYMN  XXVI. 

But  faith  can  answer  thy  demands, 
By  pleading  what  my  Lord  has  done. 

Hymn  25.    cm.    The  Sacraments. 

1  "\  4T  Y  Saviour  God,  my  sovereign  Prince, 
JL  v  JL     Reigns  far  above  the  skies  ; 

But  brings  his  graces  down  to  sense* 
And  helps  my  faith  to  rise. 

2  My  eyes  and  ears  shall  bless  his  name, 

They  read  and  hear  his  word  ; 
My  touch  and  taste  shall  do  the  same,* 
When  they  receive  the  Lord- 

3  Baptismal  water  is  designed 

To  seal  his  cleansing  grace, 
While  at  his  feast  of  bread  and  wine 
He  gave  his  saints  a  place  ; 

4  But  not  the  waters  of  a  flood 

Can  make  my  flesh  so  clean, 
As  by  his  spirit  and  his  bloo.d 
He'll  wash  my  soul  from  sin. 

5  Not  choicest  meat$  or  noblest  wines, 

So  much  my  heart  refresh, 
As  when  my  faith  goes  through  the  sigi^. 
And  feeds  upon  his  flesh. 

6  I  love  the  Lord,  that  stoops  so  low. 

To  give  his  word  a  seal  : 
But  the  rich  grace  his  hands  bestow, 
Exceeds  the  figures  still. 

H  y  m  n  2  6 .    l  .  m  .    Bap  tis m . 
1 >r  I  ^WAS  the  commission  of  our  Lord, 
'        JL      Go  teach  the  nations  and  baptize, 
The  nations  have  received  the  word 
Si i ice  he  ascended  to  the  skies. 
2  He  sits  upon  th'  eternal  hills, 
With  grace  and  pardon  in  hi«  hand 


HYMN  XXVII.  289 

Ard  sends  his  c  venant,  with  the  seals, 
T    bless  the  distant  heathen  lands. 

3  F  pent,  and  be  baptized,  he  saith, 
For  the  remission  of  your  sins  ; 
And  thus  our  sense  assists  our  faith, 
And  shews  us  what  his  gospel  means.. 

4  Our  souls  he  washes  in   ns  blood, 
As  water  makes  the  bod    clean  ; 
And  the  good  spirit  of  our  God 
Descends  like  purifying  rain. 

5  Thus  we  engage  ourselves  to  thee, 
And  seal  our  covenant  with  the  Lord  ; 
O  may  the  great  eternal  Three 

In  heaven  our  solemn  vows  record  ! 

Hymn, 2 7.  cm.    Infant  Baptism. 

1  *  I  ^HUS  saith  the  mercy  of  the  Lord, 

JL       Til  be  a  God  to  thee  ; 
Til  bless  thy  numerous  race>  and  they 
Shall  be  a  seed  to  me. 

2  Abraham  believed  the  promised  grace. 

And  gave  his  child  to  God  ; 
But  water  seals  the  blessing  now 
That  once  was  sealed  with  blood. 

3  Jesus  the  ancient  faith  confirms, 

To  our  great  Fathers  given  ; 
He  takes  young  children  to  his  arms,. 
And  calls  them  heirs  of  heaven. 

4  Our  God,  how  faithful  are  his  ways  ! 

His  love  endures  the  same  : 
Nor  from  the  promise  of  his  grace 
Blots  out  the  children's  name. 
$  With  the  same  blessing  grace  endows 
The  Gentile  and  the  Jew  ; 

B   B^ 


290  HYMN  XXVIll 

If  pure  and  holy  be  the  root, 
Sueh  are  the  branches  too. 

6  Then  let  the  children  of  the  saints 

Be  dedicate  to  God ; 
Pour  out  thy  Spirit  on  them,  Lord  ! 
And  wash  them  in  thy  blood. 

7  Thus  to  the  parents  and  their  seed 

Shall  thy  salvation  come, 
And  numerous  households  meet  at  k 
In  one  eternal  home. 

8  Thy  faithful  saints,  eternal  King! 

This  precious  truth  embrace  ; 
To  thee  their  infant  offspring  bring, 
And  humbly  claim  thy  grace. 

Hymn  28.    l.m.    The  Lord's  Supper. 
i  'np  WAS  on  that  dark,  that  doleful  night 
§      When  powers  of  earth  and  hell  arose 
Against  the  Son  of  God's  delight, 
And  friends  betray 'd  him  to  his  foes  : 

2  Before  the  mournful  scene  began, 

He  took  the  bread,  and  blessed,  and  brake  , 
What  love  through  ail  his  actions  ran  ! 
What  wondrous  works  of  grace  he  spfcike  ! 

1   This  is  my  body  broke  for  sin, 

Beceive  and  eat  the  living  food  ; 

Tin  n  took  the  cup,  and  blessed  the  wine  : 

5  Tis  the  new  covenant  in  my  blood. 
%  Do  this  (he  cried)-  till  time  shall  end, 

In  memory  of  your  dying  friend : 

Meet  at  my  table \  and  record 

The  love  of  your  departed  Lord. 

3  J-:  sus,  the  feast  we'll  celebrate, 
We'll  shew  thy  death,  we'll  sing  thy  m 
Till  thou  return,  and  we  shall  eat 
The  marriage  supper  of  the  Lamb, 


HYMN  XXX.  29 

Hymn  29.    s.  m.    Bread  and  Wme\ 

1  FESUS  invites  his  saints 

J    To  meet  around  his  board  ; 
Here  pardoned  rebels  sit  and  hold 
Communion  with  their  Lord. 

2  For  food  he  gives  his  Mesh  ; 
He  bids  us  drink  his  biood  ; 

Amazing  favour,  matehless  gr. 
Of  our  descending  Gcd  !  - 

3  The  holy  elements 

Remain  mere  wine  and  bread, 
But  signify  and  seal  the  love 

Of  Christ  our  covenant  head 

4  Let  all  our  powers  be  join'd, 
His  glorious  name  to  raise  : 

Pleasure  and  love  fill  every  mind, 
And  every  voice  be  praise. 

H  y  m  n  3 0 .   c .  m  .    The  one  Sacrifice  of  Christ*. 

JESUS,  in  thee  our  eyes  behold 
A  thousand  glories  more 
Than  the  rich  gems  and  polished  gold 
The  sons  of  i\aron  wore. 

2  They  first  their  own  burnt-off'rings  brought, 

To  purge  themselves  from  sin  ; 
Thy  life  was  pure  without  a  spot, 
And  all  thy  nature  clean 

3  Fresh  blood,  as  constant  as  the  day, 

Was  on  their  altar  spilt  ; 
But  thy  one  off 'ring  takes  away 
For  ever  all  our  guilt. 

4  Their  priesthood  ran  through  several  hands, 

For  mortal  was  their  race  ; 
Thy  never-changing  office  stands, 
Eternal  as  thy  days, 


292  HYMN  XXX, 

5  Once,  in  the  circuit  of  a  year, 

With  blood,  but  not  his  own, 
Aaron  within  the  vail  appears, 
Before  the  golden  throne. 

6  But  Christ,  by  his  own  powerful  blood, 

Ascends  above  the  skies, 
And,  in  the  presence  of  our  God, 
Shows  his  own  sacrifice. 

7  Jesus,  the  King  of  glory,  reigns, 

On  Sion's  heavenly  hill ; 
He  ever  lives,  who  once  was  slain, 
And  wears  his  priesthood  still. 

part  ii.     The  Communicant. 

8  How  sweet  and  awful  is  the  place. 

With  Christ  within  the  doors  ; 
While  everlasting  love  displays 
The  choicest  of  her  stores  ! 

9  Here  every  bowel  of  our  God 

With  soft  compassion  rolls  ; 
Here  peace  and  pardon  bought  with  bloody 
Is  food  for  dying  souls. 

10  While  all  our  hearts,  and  all  our  songs, 

Join  to  admire  the  feast, 
Each  of  us  cries  with  thankful  tongues. 
"  Lord,  why  was  I  a  guest  ? 

11  "  Why  was  I  made  to  hear  thy  voice, 

"  And  enter  where  there's  room  ; 
"  When  thousands  make  a  wretched  choice, 
"  And  rather  starve  than  come  ? 

12  'Twas  the  same  love  that  spread  the  feast, 

That  sweetly  forced  us  in  ; 
Else  we  had  still  refused  to  taste, 
And  perished  in  our  sin. 


HYMN  XXXII.  233 

1J>  Pitv  the  hypocrites,  O  Lord, 
Direct  them  how  to  come  ; 
Teach  them  to  know  and  fear  thy  word, 
And  bring  the  strangers  home. 

14  We  long  to  see  thy  churches  full, 
That  all  the  chosen  race 
May  with  one  voice,  and  heart,  and  soul, 
Sing  thy  redeeming  grace. 

Hymn  31.    l  .  m  .    The  Keys  of  the  Kingdom  of 
Heaven. 

1  T  T  T ITH  what  delight  I  raise  my  eyes, 

VV  And  view  the  courts  where  Jesus 
Jesus,  who  reigns  beyond  the  skies,  [dwells ! 
And  here  below  his  grace  reveals. 

2  Of  God's  own  house  the  sacred  key 
Is  borne  by  that  majestic  hand  ; 
Mansions  and  treasures  there  I  see 
Subjected  all  to  his  command, 

3  He  shuts,  and  worlds  might  strive  in  \ 
The  mighty  obstacle  to  move  ; 

He  looses  all  their  bars  again, 
And  who  shall  shut  the  gates  of  loT> 

4  Fix'd  in  omnipotence,  he  bears 
The  glories  of  his  Father's  name, 
Sustains  his  people's  weighty  cares, 
Through  every  changing  age  the  same, 

i  My  little  all  I  there  suspend, 

Where  the  whole  weight  of  heaven  is  buni   . 
Secure  I  rest  on  su  =  nd, 

And  into  raptures  wake  my  tongue. 
Hymn  31.    cm.    Gratitude. 


H 


O  \ V  can  I  sink  with  such  a  prop, 
As  mv  eternal  God, 


294  HYMN  XXXIII. 

Who  bears  the  earth's  huge  pillars  up> 
And  spreads  the  heavens  abroad  ? 
3  How  can  I  die  while  Jesus  lives, 
Who  rose  and  left  the  dead  ? 

Pardon  and  grace  my  soul  receives, 
From  mine  exalted  head. 

3  All  that  I  am,  and  all  I  have, 

Shall  be  for  ever  thine  ! 
Whatever  my  duty  bids  me  give, 
My  cheerful  hands  resign. 

4  Yet  if  I  might  make  some  reserve, 

And  duty  did  not  call, 
I  love  my  God  with  zeal  so  great, 
That  I  should  give  him  all. 

part  ii.    l.  m.    Necessity  of  Good  Works* 

5  So  let  our  lips  and  lives  express 
The  holy  gospel  we  profess ; 

So  let  our  works  and  virtues  shine, 
To  prove  the  doctrine  all  divine. 

6  Thus  shall  we  best  proclaim  abroad, 
The  honors  of  our  Saviour  G  >d  ; 
When  the  salvation  reigns  within, 
And  grace  subdues  the  power  oi  sin. 

7  Our  flesh  and  sense  must  be  deny'd, 
Passion  and  envy  lust  and  pride  : 

While  justice,  temp'rance,  truth,  and  love, 
Our  inward  piety  approve. 

8  Religion  bears  our  spirits  up, 
While  we  expoct  that  blessed  hope, 
The  bright  appearance  of  the  Lord, 
And  faith  stands  leaning  on  his  word- 

Hymn  33.    cm.    Conversion. 
1  "^JOT  the  malicious  or  profane, 
XN      The  wanton  or  the  proud  > 


HYMN  XXXIV.  295 

Nor  thieves  nor  sland'rers,  shall  obtain, 

The  kingdom  of  our  God. 
Surprising  grace  !  and  such  were  we 

By  nature  jand  by  sin, 
Heirs  of  immortal  misery, 

Unholy  and  unclean. 
But  we  are  washed  in  Jesus'  blood, 

We're  pardoned  through  his  name  ; 
And  the  good  Spirit  of  our  God 

Has  sanctified  our  frame. 
O  for  a  persevering  power, 

To  keep  thy  just  commands  ! 
We  would  defile  our  hearts  no  more, 

No  more  pollute  our  hands. 

part  ii.    s.  m.    Dead  to  Siju 

5  Shall  we  go  on  to  sin, 
Because  thy  grace  abounds  ? 

Or  crucify  the  Lord  again, 

And  open  all  his  wounds  ? 

6  Forbid  it  mighty  God  ! 
Nor  let  it  e'er  be  said, 

That  we,  whose  sins  are  crucified, 

Should  raise  them  from  the  dead, 

7  We  will  be  slaves  no  more, 
Since  Christ  hath  made  us  free, 

Has  nailed  our  tyrants  to  his  cross, 
And  bought  our  liberty. 
Hymn  34.    l.m.    First  Command. 

ETERNAL  God  !  Almighty  cause 
Of  earth  and  seas,  and  worlds  unknown; 
All  things  are  subject  to  thy  laws  ; 
All  things  depend  on  thee  alone. 

!  Thy  glorious  Being  singly  stands. 
Of  all  within  itself  possest ; 


296  HYMN  XXXVI. 

Controled  by  none  are  thy  commands  ; 
Thou  from  thyself  alone  art  blest. 

3  To  thee  alone  ourselves  we  owe  ; 

Let  heaven  and  earth  due  homage  pay  ; 

All  other  gods  we  disavow, 

Dtay  their  claims,  renounce  their  sway. 

4  Spread  thy  great  name  through  heathen  land4 
Their  idol-deities  dethrone  ; 

R<  duce  the  world  to  thy  command, 
And  reign,  as  thou  art,  God  alone • 

Hymn  35.    l.m.    Second  Commandment. 

THOU  art,  O  God  !  a  spirit  pure, 
Invisible  to  mortal  eyes  ; 
Th'  immortal,  and  th'  eternal  King", 
The  great,  the  good,  the  only  wise. 

c2  Whilst  nature  changes,  and  her  works 
Corrupt,  decay,  dissolve  and  die, 
Thy  essence  pure  no  change  shall  see, 
Secure  of  immortality. 

3  Thou  great  iiiVfsible !   what  hand 
Can  draw  thy  image  spotless  fair? 
To  what  in  heaven,  to  what  on  earth, 
Can  men  the  immortal  King  compare  ? 

4  Let  stupid  heathens  frame  their  gods 
Of  gold  and  silver,  wood  and  stone  ; 
Ours  is  the  God  that  made  the  heavens, 
Jehovah  he,  and  God  alone. 

5  My  soul,  thy  purest  homage  pay, 
In  truth  and  spirit  him  adore  ; 
More  shall  this  please  than  sac:  > 
Than  outward  forms  d*. 

Hymn  36.    l.m.    Third  ( 

OLY  a  ame 


H 


Of  our  eternal  King 


HYMN  XXXVIL  297 

Thrice  holy  Lord  !  the  angels  cryv 
Thrice  holy,  let  us  sing. 

1  Holy  is  he  in  all  his  works. 
And  truth  is  his  delight , 
But  sinners  and  their  wicked  way*> 
Shall  perish  from  his  sight. 

3  The  deepest  reverence  of  the  mind* 

Pay,  O  my  soul,  to  God ; 
Lift  with  thy  hands,  a  holy  heart 
To  his  sublime  abode. 

4  With  sacred  awe  pronounce  his  name, 

Abhor  the  lips  profane  ; 
Let  not  thy  tongue  the  Lord  blaspheme, 
Nor  take  his  name  in  vain. 

5  Thou  holy  God  !  preserve  my  soul 

From  all  pollution  free  ; 
The  pure  in  heart,  and  hands,  and  lips 
Alone  thy  face  shall  see. 

Hymn37.    l.m.    Religious  Oaths. 

1    TT    ET  those  who  bear  the  christian  name 
1  a     Their  holy  vows  fulfil : 
The  saints,  the  followers  of  the  Lamb, 
Are  men  of  conscience  still. 

c2  True  to  the  solemn  oaths  they  take, 
Though  to  their  hurt  they  swear  ; 
Constant  and  just  to  all  they  speak, 
For  God  their  judge  can  hear. 

3  Still  with  their  lips  their  hearts  agree. 
Nor  perjury  devise  : 
They  know  the  God  of  truth  can  sre 
Through  every  false  disguise, 


298  HYMN  XXXIX. 

Hymn  38.    l.  m.    Fourth  Command. 
\   TJ  ETURN,  my  soul,  enjoy  thy  rest, 
j\   Improve  the  day  thy  God  has  bless'd, 
Another  six  days'  work  is  done, 
Another  sabbath  is  begun. 

2  Come,  bless  the  Lord,  whose  love  assigns 
So  sweet  a  rest  to  wearied  minds  ; 
Provides  a  blest  foretaste  of  heaven, 

On  this  day  more  than  all  the  seven. 

3  O  that  our  thoughts  and  thanks  may  rise, 
As  grateful  incense,  to  the  skies  ; 

And  draw  from  Christ  that  sweet  repose, 
Which  none,  but  he  that  feels  it,  knows. 

4  This  heavenly  calm,  within  the  breast, 
Is  the  dear  pledge  of  glorious  rest, 
Which  for  the  church  of  God  remains, 
The  end  of  cares,  the  end  of  pains. 

}  With  joy,  great  God,  thy  works  we  scan, 
Creation's  scene,  redemption's  plan  ; 
With  praise,  we  think  on  mercies  past, 
With  hope,  we  future  pleasures  taste. 

6  In  holy  duties  let  the  day, 
In  holy  comforts  pass  away  ; 
How  sweet,  a  sabbath  thus  to  spend, 
In  hope  of  one  that  ne'er  shall  end  ! 
Hymn  39.    l.m.    Fifth  Com mand. 

1  f^i  RE  AT  source  of  order,  Maker  wise! 
\J  Whose  throne  is  high  above  the  skies ; 
We  praise  thy  name ;  thy  laws  ordain, 
That  order  shall  on  earth  obtain. 

2  Let  each  inferior  rank  revere 
All  such  as  their  superiors  are  ; 
And  let  superiors  also  do 

'  What's  right  by  each  inferior  too 


HYMN  XL.  299 

3  To  thee  may  each  united  house, 

At  morn  and  night  present  its  vows  ; 
O  may  each  family  proclaim 
The  honours  of  thy  glorious  name. 
part  ii.    cm.    Honour  to  Magistrate* . 

4  Eternal  sovereign  of  the  sky, 

And  Lord  of  all  below. 
We  mortals  to  thy  majesty 
Our  first  obedience  owe. 

5  Our  souls  adore  thy  throne  supreme. 

And  bless  thy  providence, 
For  magistrates  of  various  name, 
Our  glory  and  defence. 

6  Where  laws  and  liberty  combine 

To  make  the  nation  blessed  ; 
There  magistrates  with  lustre  shine, 
And  states  are  governed  best. 

7  Nations  on  firm  foundations  stand, 

While  virtue  finds  reward  ; 
And  sinners  perish  from  the  land, 
By  justice  and  the  sword. 

8  To  magistrates  be  honour  paid, 

To  laws  obedience  shown  ; 
But  consciences  and  souls  were  made 
To  be  the  Lord's  alone. 

Hymn  40.    l.m.    Sixth  Command, 

1  f  |  ^HO',  Lord  ourhands  have  not  been  staiiva 

I       With  human  blood,  by  thee  restrain'd, 
Yet  O  what  seeds  of  murder  wrought 
In  each  revengeful  word  or  thought ! 

2  Condemned,  we  fall  before  thy  face, 
Our  only  refuge  is  thy  grace  ; 

O  wash  our  souls  from  every  sin, 
And  make  our  guilty  conscience  clean. 


iOO  HYMN  XLII. 

3  Let  clamour,  wrath  and  war  be  gone, 
Let  bitter  words  no  more  be  known ; 
Envy  and  spite  for  ever  cease, 
Among  the  saints,  the  sons  of  peace. 
H y  m  n  4 1 .    l  .  m  .    The  Seventh  Command*. 

1   "\~\7~E  own,  O  Lord,  thy  precepts  just4 
V  V      Against  impure  desires  and  lust. 
And  mourn  with  grief  and  humble  shame 
Our  guilty  and  polluted  frame. 

:1  In  vain  would  be  the  rash  pretence 
To  plead  a  faultless  innocence  ; 
When  all  our  nature  is  unclean, 
And  soul  and  body  stained  with  sin. 

:>  But  what  strong  language  can  express 
Their  guilt,  and  shame,  and  wretchedness, 
Who  boldly  dare  their  God  defy, 
And  with  their  lusts  offend  his  eye  ! 

i  O  wash  their  souls  from  this  foul  sin, 
And  make  their  guilty  conscience  clean* 
Great  God  create  their  hearts  anew, 
And  form  their  spirits  pure  and  true. 

•  Guard  us  blest  Saviour  by  thy  grace, 
Nor  let  temptations  gain  success  ; 
Preserve  the  temples  which  are  thine, 
That  we  in  holiness  may  shine. 

Hymn  42.    cm.    Eighth  Command* 
r    f^\  OME  let  us  search  our  ways  and  try, 
\^j     Have  they  been  just  and  right  ? 
Js  the  great  rule  of  equity 
Our  practice  and  delight  ? 

2  What  we  would  have  our  neighbour  dor 
Have  we  still  done  the  same  ? 
And  ne'er  delay'd  to  pay  his  due. 
Nor  injured  his  good  name  9 


HYMN  XLIIL  bOi 

3  In  all  we  sell,  in  all  we  buy, 

Is  justice  our  design  ? 
Do  we  remember  God  is  nigh, 
And  fear  the  wrath  divine  ? 

4  In  vain  we  talk  of  Jesus'  blood, 

And  boast  his  name  in  vain, 
If  wre  can  slight  the  laws  of  God, 
And  prove  unjust  to  men. 

part  ii.    l.m.    Honesty, 

5  Great  God  thy  holy  law  commands 
Strict  honesty  in  our  demands  ; 
Forbids  to  plunder,  steal  of  cheat, 
To  practice  falsehood  or  deceit. 

6  Have  we  no  righteous  debt  denied 
From  views  dishonest  or  through  pride  ? 
Nor  vext  the  poor  with  long  delay, 
And  made  them  groan  for  want  of  pay  ? 

7  O  !  if  our  honesty  be  gone 

And  leave  our  faith  and  hope  alone  ; 
If  honesty  be  banished  hence, 
Religion  is  a  vain  pretence. 

Hymn  43.    cm.    Ninth  Command- 

1  TJ  ELIGION  is  the  chief  concern 
JLV     Of  mortals  here  below  : 
May  all  its  great  importance  learn} 

Its  sovereign  virtue  know. 

2  Let  deep  repentance,  faith,  and  love. 

Be  joined  with  godly  fear  ; 
And  all  our  conversation  prove 
Our  souls  to  be  sincere. 

3  Let  with  our  lips  our  hearts  agree. 

Nor  slandering  words  devise  : 
cc5 


302  HYMN  XLIV. 

We  know  the  God  of  truth  can  see 
Through  every  false  disguise. 
4  Lord  never  let  our  envy  grow, 
To  hear  another's  praise  ; 
Nor  rob  him  of  his  honour  due,, 
By  base  revengeful  ways. 

9  O  God  of  truth  help  to  detest 
Whate'er  is  false  or  wrong, 
That  lies  in  earnest  or  in  jest 
May  ne'er  employ  our  tongue. 

Hymn  44.    l.m.    The  Tenth  Command. 

1  'XJLT  HATE'ER  thy  lot  on  earth  may  be 

V  V     Let  it  contentment  yield  to  thee  ; 
Nor  others  envy,  nor  repine, 
Nor  covet  aught  that  is  not  thine. 

2  Justly  hast  thou  forbidden,  Lord, 

Each  murmuring  motion,  thought,  or  word': 

Justly  requiring  full  content 

With  what  thy  providence  hath  lent. 

3  But  who  can  here  lift  up  his  eye 
Before  the  Lord  of  hosts  on  high, 
And  say,  "  this  precept  I've  obeyed, 
Nor  from  it  ever  turned  aside  ?" 

4  Alive  without  the  law  I  stood, 

And  thought  my  state  was  safe  and  good  ; 
But  when  with  power  this  precept  came, 
I  saw  my  sin,  and  guilt,  and  shame. 

3  Lord  I  adore  thy  saving  love, 

Which  did  from  me  the  curse  remove, 
By  hanging  on  the  accursed  tree, 
And  being  made  a  curse  for  me  ! 

p  a  r  t  1 1 .   cm.  Sancttfication on  earth  imperfecf 

6  Graoe  has  enabled  me.  to  love 
Thy  holy  law  and  will, 


HYMN  XL1V.  503 

But  sin  has  not  yet  ceased  to  move, 
It  tyrannizes  still. 

7  Hence  often  filled  with  dread  alarms^ 

My  peace  and  joy  subside, 
And  Pve  employ  for  all  the  arms 
The  gospel  has  supplied. 

8  Thus  different  powers  within  me  strive. 

While  opposites  I  feel, 
I  grieve,  rejoice,  decline^  revive, 
As  sin  or  grace  prevail. 

9  But  Jesus  hath  his  promise  past ; 

Sin  with  the  body  dies, 
And  grace  in  all  his  saints  at  last 
Shall  gain  its  victories. 

part  in.    l.m.    Practical  Use  of  the  Moral 
Law, 

10  Here,  Lord,  my  soul  convicted  stands 
Of  breaking  all  thy  ten  commands  : 
And  on  me  justly  might'st  thou  pour 
Thy  wrath  in  one  eternal  shower. 

1 1  But  thanks  to  God,  its  loud  alarms 
Have  warned  me  of  approaching  harms  ; 
And  now,  O  Lord,  my  wants  I  see, 
Lost  and  undone,  I  come  to  thee. 

12  I  know  my  fig-leaf  righteousness 
Can  ne'er  thy  broken  law  redress  ; 
Yet  in  thy  gospel  plan  I  see 
There's  hope  of  pardon  e'en  for  me. 

13  There,  I  behold  with  wonder,  Lord ! 
That  Christ  hath  to  thy  law  restored 
Those  honours  on  the  atoning  day, 
Which  guilty  sinners  took  away. 

14  Amazing  wisdom,  power  and  love, 
Displayed  to  rebels  from  above  I 


304  HYMN  XLV. 

Do  thou,  O  Lord,  my  faith  increase 
To  love  and  trust  thy  plan  of  grace. 
Hymn  45.    l.  m.    Prayer, 

1  II  T  HERE  is  my  God?  does  he  retire 

V  V      Beyond  the  reacli  of  humble  sighs  ? 
Are  these  weak  breathings  of  desire 
Too  languid  to  ascend  the  skies  ? 

2  No,  Lord,  the  breathings  of  desire, 
The  weak  petition,  if  sincere, 

Is  not  forbidden  to  aspire, 

But  reaches  thy  all-gracious  ear. 

:3  Look  up,  my  soul,  with  cheerful  eye, 
See  where  the  great  Redeemer  stands, 
The  glorious  advocate  on  high, 
With  precious  incense  in  his  hands. 

4  He  sweetens  every  humble  groan, 
He  recommends  each  broken  prayer  ; 
Recline  thy  hope  on  him  alone, 
Whose  power  and  love  forbid  despair. 

part  ii.  The  Requisites  and  Subjects  of  Prayer. 

5  Prayer  is  appointed  to  convey 

The  blessings  God  designs  to  give  : 
Long  as  they  live  should  christians  pray  ; 
They  learn  to  pray  when  first  they  live. 

6  If  pain  afflict,  or  wrongs  oppress, 
If  cares  distract,  or  fears  dismay  ; 
If  guilt  dc jcct ;  if  sin  distress  ; 
In  every  case  look  up  and  pray. 

7  'Tis  prayer  supports  the  soul  that's  weak  i 
Though  thought  be  broken,  language  lame, 
Pray  ;  if  thou  canst,  or  canst  not,  speak  ; 
But  pray  with  faith  in  Jesu's  name. 

3  Depend  on  him  ;  thou  canst  not  fail ; 
Make  all  thy  wants  and  wishes  known  ? 


HYMN  XLV.  30* 

Fear  not ;  his  merits  must  prevail ; 
Ask  but  in  faith,  it  shall  be  done. 

part  hi,    p.  m.    Lord's  Prayer. 

)  Father  of  all !  eternal  mind  ! 
In  uncreated  light  enshrined, 
Immensely  good,  immensely  great ! 
Thy  children  formed  and  blessed  by  theq. 
With  filial  love*  and  homage,  we 
Fall  prostrate  at  thy  awful  feet. 

10  Thy  name  in  hallowed  strains  be  sung, 
Let  every  heart  and  every  tongue, 
In  the  celestial  concert  join  ; 
In  loving,  serving,  praising  thee 
We  find  our  chief  felicity  : 
But  cannot  add  one  jot  to  thine. 

ii  Thy  righteous,  mild,  and  sovereign  reign, 
Throughout  creation's  ample  plan, 
Let  every  thinking  being  own. 
Lord  in  our  hearts,  where  passions  rude, 
With  fierce  tumultuous  rage,  intrude* 
Erect  thy  powerful,  peaceful  throne, 

12  As  angels  round  thy  seat  above, 
With  joyful  haste,  and  ardent  love, 
Thy  blest  commands,  attend,  fulfil ; 
So  let  thy  creatures  here  below, 

As  far  as  thou  hast  given  to  know, 
Perform  thy  good  and  sacred  wilL 

13  On  thee,  we  day  by  day  depend, 
Our  being's  author,  and  its  end  ; 
Our  daily  wants,  and  need  supply .* 
With  healthful  meat  our  bodies  feed-, 
Our  souls  sustain  with  living  bread, 
Qur  precious  souls  which  never  die. 


306  HYMN  XLVI. 

14  Extend  thy  grace  to  every  fault ; 
Each  sinful  action,  word,  and  thought* 
Oh  !  let  thy  love  our  sins  forgive  ; 

For  thou  hast  taught  our  hearts  to  show 
Divine  forgiveness  to  our  foe, 
Nor  longer  let  resentment  live. 

15  Where  tempting  snares  bestrew  the  way, 
To  lead  unwary  minds  astray, 

Permit  us  not  therein  to  tread  ; 
Unless  thy  gracious  aid  appear 
To  avert  the  threat'ning  danger  near  ; 
From  our  unguarded,  heedless  head. 

16  Thy  sacred  name  we  thus  adore, 
And  thus  thy  choicest  gifts  implore, 
With  ardent,  joyful,  humble  mind  ; 
Because  thy  power  and  glory  prove 
Thy  kingdom  built  on  wisdom,  love, 
Endless,  triumphing,  unconfined. 

17  O  Lord  to  whom  we  still  repair, 
Accept  of  this  our  hearty  prayer, 
Our  trust  is  in  thy  mighty  power; 
Amen,  amen,  we  all  express, 

With  one  accord  thy  name  we  bless, 
Thou  art  our  safeguard  and  our  towei. 
Hymn  46.    cm.    Our     Father    which    art   ??; 
Heaven, 

1  QOVERE1GN  of  all  the  worlds  on  high, 
j^     Allow  our  humble  claim  ; 

Nor  while  poor  worms  would  raise  their  heads. 
Disdain  a  Father's  name. 

2  Our  Father  God !  how  sweet  the  sound  ! 

How  tender  and  how  dear  ! 
Not  all  the  melody  of  heaven 
Could  so  delight  the  ear= 


HYMN  XVIII.  30£T 

3  Come,  sacred  Spirit,  seal  the  name 

On  mine  expanding  heart ; 
And  shew,  that  in  Jehovah's  grace 
I  share  a  filial  part. 

4  Cheered  by  a  signal  so  divine, 

Unwavering  I  believe  : 
Thou  know'st  I  Abba,  Father,  cry, 

Nor  can  thy  word  deceive. 
Hymn  47.    cm.   Hallowed  be  thy  Name. 

1  A    MONG  the  princes,  earthly  gods, 
XV  There's  none  hath  power  divine  ; 
Nor  are  their  names  or  works,  O  Lord, 
Or  natures,  like  to  thine. 

2  Thy  matchless  power,  thy  sovereign  sway, 
The  nations  shall  adore  ; 

Their  long  misguided  prayers  and  praise 
To  thee,  O  God,  restore. 

3  Let  all  confess  thy  name  and  know 
The  wonders  thou  hast  done  ; 
Let  all  adore  thee,  God  supreme, 
And  own  thee  God  alone. 

4  While  heaven  and  all  who  dwell  on  high, 
To  thee  their  voices  raise, 

Let  the  whole  earth  assist  the  sky, 
And  join  to  advance  thy  praise. 

Hymn  48.    l.  m.    Thy  Kingdom  come. 

1  A    SCEND  thy  throne,  almighty  King, 
XV    And  spread  thy  glories  all  abroad ; 
Let  thine  own  arm  salvation  bring, 

And  be  thou  known  the  gracious  God. 

2  Let  millions  bow  before  thy  seat, 
Let  humble  mourners  seek  thy  face, 
Bring  daring  rebels  to  thy  feet, 
Subdued  by  thy  victorious  grace 


308  HYMN  XLIX. 

3  O  let  the  kingdoms  of  the  world 
Become  the  kingdoms  of  the  Lord  j 
Let  saints  and  angels  praise  thy  name, 
Be  thou  through  heaven  and  earth  adored. 

Hymn  49.    l.  m.  .  Thy  IVdl  be  done  on  Eartfi 
as  it  is  in  Heaven, 

*  Hp^HOUreign'stjO  Lord,  thy  throne  is  high, 
j_     Thy  robes  are  light  and  majesty  ; 
Thy  power  is  sovereign  to  fulfil 
The  holy  counsels  of  thy  will. 

2  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth  below 
As  'tis  in  heaven  ;  thy  grace  bestow 
On  us  and  all  may  we  and  they 
Renounce  our  wills,  and  thine  obey. 

3  While  all  the  hosts  of  heaven  rejoice 
To  yield  obedience  to  thy  voice  ; 

In  constancy,  and  zeal,  and  love, 
May  we  resemble  those  above. 

part  ii.    cm.    Thy  Providential  Will  be  dene, 

4  It  is  the  Lord — enthroned  in  light. 

Whose  claims  are  all  divine  ; 
Who  has  an  undisputed  right 
To  govern  me  and  mine- 

5  It  is  the  Lord— should  I  distrust 

Or  contradict  his  will  ? 
Who  cannot  do  but  what  is  just. 
And. must  be  rigliteous  still. 

6  It  is  the  Lord — who  gives  me  all 

My  wealth,  my  friends,  my  ease  ; 
And  of  his  bounties  may  recall 
Whatever  part  he  please- 

7  It  is  the  Lord — who  can  sustain 

Beneath  the  heaviest  load. 


HYMN  JL.  309 

From  whom  assistance  I  obtain 
To  tread  the  thorny  road. 

3  It  is  the  Lord — whose  matchless  skil! 
Can  from,  afflictions  raise 
Matter,  eternity  to  fill 
With  ever  growing  praise. 

9  It  is  the  Lord — my  covenant  God, 
Thrice  blessed  be  his  name  ! 
Whose  gracious  promise,  sealed  with  blood, 
Must  ever  be  the  same.  . 

10  His  covenant  will  my  soul  defend, 

Should  nature's  self  expire  : 
And  the  great  judge  of  all  descend 
In  awful  flames  of  fire. 

1 1  And  can  my  soul  with  hopes  like  these, 

Be  sullen,  or  repine  ? 
.  No,  gracious  God,  take  what  thou  please,., 
I'll  cheerfully  resign. 

Hymn  50.    l.m.    Give  us  this  Day  our  daily 
Bread. 

1  ^TpHROUGH  all  the  various  shifting  scene 

_1_     Of  life's  mistaken  ill  or  good  ; 
Thy  hand,  O  God,  conducts  unseen 
The  beautiful  vicissitude. 

2  Thou  givest  with  paternal  care, 
Howe'er  unjustly  we  complain, 
To  each  their  necessary  share 

Of  joy  and  sorrow,  health  and  pain. 

3  Trust  we  to  youth,  or  friends,  or  power, 
Fix  we  on  this  terrestrial  ball  ? 
When-  most  secure,  the  coming  hour, 

If  thou  see  fit,  may  blast  them  all. 

D    9 


310  HYMN  LI. 

4  When  lowest  sunk  with  grief  and  shame, 
Fill'd  with  affliction's  bitter  cup, 

Lost  to  relations,  friends  and  fame, 
Thy  powerful  hand  can  raise  us  up, 

5  Thy  powerful  consolations  cheer, 

Thy  smiles  suppress  the  deep-fetched  sigh, 
Thy  hand  can  dry  the  trickling  tear 
That  secret  wets  the  orphan's  eye. 

6  Thus  far  sustained,  and  cloathed,  and  fed, 
Through  life's  tumultuous  scenes  we'  ve  come ; 
Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread, 

And  lead  and  bring  us  safely  home. 

Hymn  51.    cm.    Forgive  us  our  Debts  as  we 
forgive  our  Debtors. 

1  T"    ORD,  at  thy  feet  we  sinners  lie, 

I  a    And  knock  at  mercy's  door ; 
With  heavy  heart  and  downcast  eye, 
Thy  favour  we  implore. 

2  In  deep  distress  we  seek  thy  face 

Forgiveness  to  receive ; 
We  trust  our  souls  are  taught  through  grace. 
Our  debtors  to  forgive. 

3  'Tis  pardon,  pardon  we  implore, 

O  let  thy  bowels  move  ; 
Thv  grace  is  an  exhaustless  store, 
And  thou  thyself  art  love. 

4  Oh,  for  thy  own,  for  Jesus'  sake, 

Our  many  sins  forgive  ; 
Thy  grace  our  rocky  hearts  can  break. 
And  breaking  soon  relieve. 
3  Mercy,  good  Lord,  mercy  we  plead, 
This  is  the  total  sum  ; 
Mercy,  through  Christ,  is  all  we  need, 
Lord,  let  thy  mercy  come. 


HYMN  LII.  311 

Hymn  52.    l.  m.    Temptation. 
\  r-p*HUS  far  my  God  has  led  me  on, 

X     And  made  his  truth  and  mercy  known  ; 
My  hopes  and  fears  alternate  rise, 
And  comforts  mingle  with  my  sighs. 

2  Through  this  wide  wilderness  I  roam, 
Far  distant  from  my  blissful  home  ; 
Lord,  let  thy  presence  be  my  stay, 
And  guard  me  in  this  dangerous  way. 

3  Temptations  every  where  annoy, 
And  sins  and  snares  my  peace  destroy  ; 
My  earthly  joys  are  from  me  torn, 
And  oft  an  absent  God  I  mourn. 

4  My  soul  with  various  tempests  tossed, 
Her  hopes  o'erturn'd,  her  projects  crossed. 
Sees  every  "day  new  straits  attend, 

And  wonders  where  the-scene  will  end. 

5  Is  this,  dear  Lord,  that  thorny  road, 
Which  leads  us  to  the  mount  of  God  ? 
Are  these  the  toils  thy  people  know, 
While  in  the  wilderness  below  ? 

6  'Tis  even  so,  thy  faithful  love 
Doth  all  thy  children's  graces  prove  ; 
?Tis  thus  our  pride  and  self  must  fall, 
That  Jesus  may  be  all  in  all. 

part  ii.    cm.    Deliver  us  from  Evik, 

7  Teach  us,  O  Lord,  aright  to  plead 

For  mercies  from  above  : 
O  come,  and  bless  our  souls  indeed, 
With  light,  and  joy,  and  love. 

8  The  gospel's  promised  land  is  wide, 

We  fain  would  enter  in  ; 
But  we  are  pressed  on  every  side, 
With  unbelief  and  sin, 


312  HYMN  LII. 

9  Arise,  O  Lord,  enlarge  our  coast) 
Let  us  possess  the  whole  ; 
That  Satan  may  no  longer  boast, 
He  can  thy  work  control. 

10  Oh,  may  thy  hand  be  with  us  still, 

Our  guide  and  guardian  be  ; 
To  keep  us  safe  from  every  ill, 
Till  death  shall  set  us  free. 

1 1  Help  us  on  thee  to  cast  our  care, 

And  on  thy  word  to  rest ; 
That  Israel's  God,  who  heareth  prayer, 
Will  grant  us  our  request. 

part  in.    Perseverance. 

12  Rejoice,  believer,  in  the  Lord, 

Who  makes  your  cause  his  own  ; 
The  hope  that's  built  upon  his  word, 
Can  ne'er  be  overthrown. 

13  Though  many  foes  beset  your  road, 

And  feeble  is  your  arm  ; 
Your  life  is  hid  with  Christ  in  God, 
Beyond  the  reach  of  harm. 

L4  Weak  as  you  are,  you  shall  not  fayit, 
Or  fainting,  shall  not  die  ; 
Jesus,  the  strength  of  every  saint,  . 
Will  aid  you  from  on  high. 

1 5  As  surely  as  he  overcame, 

And  triumphed  once  for  you  ; 
So  surely,  you  that  love  his  name, 
Shall  triumph  in  him  too. 
part  iv.   Victory  through  free  grace-, 

1 6  Let  me,  my  Saviour  and  my  God, 

On  sovereign  grace  rely  ; 
And  own  'tis  free,  because  bestow'd 
On  one  so  vile  as  J. 


HYMN  L1I.  513 

17  Election!  'tis  a  word  divine  , 

For,  Lord,  I  plainly  see, 
Had  not  thv  choice  prevented  mine, 
I  ne'er  had  chosen  thee. 

18  For  p er severance,  strength  I've  none  ; 

But  would  on  this  depend, 
That,  Jesus,  having  loved  his  own, 
Will  love  them  to  the  end. 

19  Empty  and  bare,  I  come  to  thee 

For  righteousness  divine : 
O  may  thy  glorious  merits  be, 
By  imputation,  mine. 

20  Free  grace  alone  can  wipe  the  tears 

Froni  my  lamenting  eyes  : 
And  raise  my  soul,  from  guilty  fears, 
To  joy  that  never  dies. 

21  Free  grace  can  death  itself  out-brave, 

And  take  the  sting  away  : 
Can  sinners  to  the  utmost  save, 
And  give  them  victory. 

part  v.    l.  m.    Thine   is  the  Kingdom,  Power 
and  Glory. 

22  Our  grateful  tongues,  immortal  King, 
Thy  glory  shall  for  ever  sing, 

Our  hymns  to  time's  remotest  day, 
Thy  truth  in  sacred  notes  display. 

23  What  power,  O  Lord,  shall  vie  with  thine  ? 
What  name  among  the  saints  divine, 

Of  equal  excellence  possessed, 

Thy  sovereignty,  great  God,  contest  ? 

24  Thee,  Lord,  heaven's  host  their  maker  own, 
Thine  is  the  kingdom,  thine  alone  ; 

Thee,  endless  majesty  has  crowned, 
And  glory  ever  vests  thee  round. 

D  D  2. 


314  HYMN  LII. 

25  Thrones  and  dominions  round  thee  fall, 
Thy  presence  shakes  this  lower  ball  ; 
From  change  to  change  the  creatures  run 
But  all  thy  vast  designs  are  one. 

26  O  wise  in  all  thy  works  !  thy  name 
Let  man's  whole  race  aloud  proclaim, 
And  grateful  through  the  length  of  days. 
In  ceaseless  songs  repeat -thy  praise. 

part  vi.    Homeinview,  Amen. 

27  As  when  the  weary  traveller  gains 
The  height  of  some  o'erlooking  hill, 
His  heart  revives,  if  cross  the  plains 
He  eyes  his  home,  though  distant  still 

28  Thus  when  the  christian  pilgrim  views 
By  faith,  his  mansion  in  the  skies, 
The  sight  his  fainting  strength  renews, 
And  wings  his  speed  to  reach  the  prize. 

29  The  thought  of  home  his  spirit  cheers, 
No  more  he  grieves  for  troubles  past ; 
Nor  any  future  trial  fears, 

So  he  may  safe  arrive  at  last. 

30  'Tis  there,  he  says,  I  am  to  dwell 
With  Jesus,  in  the  realms  of  day  : 
There  I  shall  bid  my  cares  farewel. 
And  he  will  wipe  my  tears  away. 

;  1  Jesus,  on  thee  our  hope  depends, 
'  To  lead  us  on  to  thine  abode  : 
Assured  our  home  will  make  amends 
For  all  our  toil  while  on  the  road. 

32  Hallelujah hallelujah, 

Hallelujah —hallelujah, 

Hallelujah hallelujah, 

Hallelujah — Amen,  Amen* 


HYMN  LIV,  315 

'ivmn  53  to  73,  are  adapted  to  the  Holy  Ordinance  of  the  Lord's 
Supper. 

Hymn  53.    l.m.    Invitation. 
I   X^E  wretched,  hungry,  starving  poor, 
j[       Behold  a  royal  feast  i 
Where  mercy  spreads  her  bounteous  store? 
For  every  humble  guest. 

2  See,  Jesus  stands  with  open  arms  ; 

He  calls,  he  bids  you  come  : 
Guilt  holds  you  back,  and  fear  alarms  : 
But  see  !  there  yet  is  room. 

3  O  come,  and  with  his  children  taste 

The  blessings  of  his  love  ; 
While  hope  attends  the  sweet  repasjt. 
Of  nobler  joys  above. 

4  There,  with  united  heart  and  voice. 

Before  the  eternal  throne, 
Ten  thousand  thousand  souls  rejoice., 
In  ecstasies  unknown. 

5  And  yet  ten  thousand  thousand  more, 

Are  welcome  still  to  come  : 
Ye  longing  souls,  the  grace  adore  ; 
Approach,  there  yet  is  room. 

Hymn  54.    cm.    Invitation. 

1  r  I  ^HE  King  of  heaven  his  table  spreads^ 

I        And  blessings  crown  the  board  ; 
Not  paradise,  with  all  its  joys, 
Could  such  delight  afford. 

2  Pardon  and  peace  to  dying  men, 

And  endless  life  are  given  ; 
Through  the  rich  blood  that  Jesus  shed 
To  raise  our  souls  to  heaven. 

3  Ye  hungry  poor,  that  long  have  strayed 

In  sin's  dark  mazes,  come  ; 


516  HYMN  LVL 

Come,  from  your  most  obscure  retreats, 
And  grace  shall  find  you  room. 

4  Millions  of  souls  in  glory  now, 

Were  fed,  and  feasted  here  ; 
And  millions  more,  still  on  the  way, 
Around  the  board  appear, 

5  All  things  are  ready,  come  away, 

Nor  weak  excuses  frame  ; 
Crowd  to  your  places  at  the  feast, 
And  bless  the  founder's  name. 

Hymn  55.    cm.    Invitation. 

1  r  I  ^HE  King  of  heaven  a  feast  has  made 

JL       And  to  his  much-loved  friends, 
The  saint,  the  famished,  and  the  sad, 
His  invitation  sends. 

2  Lo,  at  thy  gracious  bidding,  Lord, 

Though  vile  and  base  we  come, 
O,  speak  the  reconciling  word, 
And  welcome  wanderers  home, 

3  Impart  to  all  thy  flock  below 

The  blessings  of  thy  death  : 
On  every  mourning  soul  bestow 
Thy  love,  thy  hope,  thy  faith. 

4  May  each,  with  strength  from  heaven  endued? 

Say,  u  My  beloved's  mine  ; 
"  I  eat  his  flesh,  and  drink  his  blood, 
"  In  signs  of  bread  and  wine." 
Hymn  56.    l.m.    Preparation. 

1  Tn^TERNAL  King,  enthroned  above, 
Fi  Look  down  in  faithfulness  and  love, 

Prepare  our  hearts  to  seek  thy  face, 
And  grant  us  thy  reviving  grace. 

2  Long  have  we  heard  the  joyful  call, 
But  yet  our  faith  and  iove  are  small ; 


HYMN  LVIII.  317 

Our  hearts  are  torn  with  vvorldly  cares, 
And  all  our  paths  are  niied  with  snares, 

3  Unworthy  to  approach  thy  throne, 
Our  trust  is  fixed  on  Christ  alone  ; 
In  him  thy  covenant  stands  secure, 
And  will  from  age  to  age  endure. 

4  O  let  us  hear  thy  pard'ning  voice, 
And  bid  our  mourning  hearts  rejoice  ; 
Revive  our  souls,  our  faith  renew, 
Prepare  for  duties  now  in  view. 

5  Make  all  our  spices  flow  abroad, 
A  grateful  incense  to  our  God  ; 
Let  hope  and  love  and  joy  appear, 
And  every  grace.be  active  here. 

Hymn  57.    l.m.    Preparation. 

1  PTHHE  broken  bread,  the  blessed  cup, 

I      On  which  we  now  are  called  to  sup^ 
Without  thy  help  and  grace  divine, 
Will  prove  no  more  than  bread  and  wine-. 

2  But  come  great  Master  of  the  feast, 
Dispense  thy  grace  to  every  guest ; 
Direct  our  views  to  Calvary, 

And  help  us  to  remember  thee. 

S  Let  us  with  light  and  truth  be  blest, 

That  on  thy  bosom  we  may  rest ; 

And  at  thy  supper  each  may  leam# 

Thy  broken  body  to  discern.  » 

*  O  that  our  souls  may  now  be  fed 

With  Christ  himself  the  living  bread  ; 

That  we  the  covenant  may  renew 

And  to  our  vows  be  rendered  true  ! 
Hymn  58.    p.m.    Preparation  . 
1   T    ET  me  with  light  and  truth  be  blessed^ 

JLi  O  let  them  lead  the  way, 


318  HYMN  LIX. 

Till  on  thy  holy  hill  I  rest, 
And  in  thy  temple  pray  : 
Fresh  altars  then  I'll  raise 
To  God :  and  songs  of  praise 
To  him,  who  is  my  only  joy, 
Shall  all  my  grateful  hours  employ. 

2  Why  then  cast  down  my  soul,  and  why 
So  much  oppressed  with  care  ? 

On  God,  thy  God,  for  aid  rely, 
Who  will  thy  state  repair  : 

On  him  alone  depend, 

For  he's  thy  cov'nant  friend  ; 

The  praise  of  him  thou  yet  shalt  sing, 

Who  is  thy  health's  eternal  spring. 

Hymn  59.    l.  m.    The  Memorial  of  our  absent 
Lord. 

1  TESUS  is  gone  above  the  skies, 

J    Where  our  weak  senses  reach  him  not ; 

And  carnal  objects  court  our  eyes, 

To  thrust  our  Saviour  from  our  thought. 

2  He  knows  what  wand'ring  hearts  we  have, 
Apt  to  forget  his  lovely  face  : 

And,  to  refresh  our  minds,  he  gave 
These  kind  memorials  of  his  grace. 

3  The  Lord  of  life  this  table  spread 
With  his  own  flesh  and  dying  biood, 
We  on  the  rich  provision  feed, 

And  taste  the  wine,  and  bless  our  God 

4  Let  sinful  sweets  be  all  forgot, 
And  earth  grow  less  in  our  esteem  ; 
Christ  and  his  love  fill  every  thought. 
And  faith  and  hope  be  fixed  on  him , 

5  While  he  is  absent  from  our  sight 
'Tis  to  prepare  our  souls  a  ph 


HYMN  LXI.  319 

That  we  may  dwell  in  heavenly  light, 
And  live  for  ever  near  his  face. 
6  Our  eyes  look  upwards  to  the  hills 
Whence  our  returning  Lord  shall  come  ; 
We  wait  thy  chariot's  awful  wheels, 
To  fetch  our  longing  spirits  home. 
Hymn  60.    cm.    The  Love  of  Christ, 

1  TOW  condescending,  and  how  kind 
XL     ^as  God's  eternal  Son  ! 

Our  mis'ry  reached  his  heavenly  mind, 
And  pity  brought  him  down. 

2  When  justice,  by  our  sins  provoked, 

Drew  forth  his  dreadful  sword, 
He  gave  his  soul  up  to  the  stroke, 
Without  a  murm'ring  word. 

3  Here  we  receive  repeated  seals 

Of  Jesus'  dying  love  : 
Hard  is  the  wretch  that  never  feels 
One  soft  aiFection  move. 

4  Here  let  our  hearts  begin  to  melt, 

While  we  his  death  record, 
And,  with  our  joy  for  pardoned  guilt, 
Mourn  that  we  pierced  the  Lord. 

Hymn  61.    cm.    Christ  the  Bread  of  Life, 
1  ET  us  adore  th'  eternal  Word, 

JLf     'Tis  he  our  souls  hath  fed  ; 
Thou  art  our  living  stream,  O  Lord, 
And  thou  the  immortal  bread. 
-2  Blessed  be  the  Lord,  that  gives  his  flesh 
To  nourish  dying  men  ; 
And  often  spreads  his  table  fresh, 
Lest  we  should  faint  again. 

3  Our  souls  shall  draw  their  heavenly  breath, 
Whilst  Jesus  finds  supplies  : 


320  HYMN  LXIII. 

Nor  shall  our  graces  sink  to  death, 

For  Jesus  never  dies- 
4  The  God  of  mercy  be  adored 

Who  calls  our  souls  from  death, 
Who  saves  by  his  redeeming  word, 

And  new  creating  breath. 

H  To  praise  the  Father  and  the  Son, 
And  Spirit  all  divine, 
The  One  in  Three,  and  Three  in  One, 
Let  saints  and  angels  join. 

Hymn  62.    cm.    Pardon  sealed. 

1  IT    ORD,  how  divine  thy  comforts  are  ! 
JL 4    How  heavenly  is  the  place 
Where  Jesus  spreads  the  sacred  feast 

Of  his  redeeming  grace- 

2  There  the  rich  bounties  of  our  Godf 

And  sweetest  glories  shine  ; 
There  Jesus  says,  that  /  am  his, 
And  my  Beloved's  mine. 

3  Here,  (says  the  kind  redeeming  Lord, 

And  shews  his  wounded  side) 
See  here  the  spring  of  all  your  joys, 
That  opened  when  I  died. 

4  To  him  that  washed  us  in  his  blood, 

Be  everlasting  praise, 
Salvation,  honour,  glory,  power, 
Eternal  as  his  days. 
Hymn  63.    l.m.    The  Love  of  Christ. 

1  'HPWAS  his  own  love  that  made  him  bleed, 

X     That  naiPd  him  to  the  cursed  tree  ; 
'Twas  his  own  love  this  table  spread 
For  such  unworthy  guests  as  we. 

2  Then  let  us  taste  the  Saviour's  love  ; 
Come,  faith,  and  feed  upon  the  Lord ; 


HYMN  LXV.  321 

With  glad  consent  our  lips  shall  move. 
And  sweet  Hosannas  crown  the  board. 

Hymn  64.    l,  m.    Self  dedication  at  the  Lord's 
Table. 

1  ORD,  am  I  thine,  entirely  thine  ? 
JLi    Purchased  and  saved  by  blood  divine  ? 
With  full  consent  thine  I  would  be, 

And  own  thy  sovereign  right  in  me. 

2  Thee  my  blessed  master  now  1  call, 
And  consecrate  "to  thee  my  all ; 
Lord,  let  me  live  and  die  to  thee, 
Be  thine  through  ail  eternity. 

Hymn  65.    cm.    Faith,  Hope  and  Love. 
i    f  J.^HE  blest  memorials  of  thy  grief, 
jL       The  suff'rings  of  thy  death, 
We  come,  dear  Saviour,  to  receive  ; 
But  would  receive  with  faith. 

2  The  tokens  sent  us  to  relieve 

Our  spirits  when  they  droop, 
We  come,  dear  Saviour,  to  receive  ; 
But  would  receive  with  hope. 

3  The  pledges  thou  wast  pleased  to  leave, 

Our  mournful  minds  to  move, 
We  come,  dear  Saviour,  to  receive  ; 
But  would  receive  with  love. 

4  Here  in  obedience  to  thy  word, 

We  take  the  bread  and  wine  ; 
The  utmost  we  can  do,  dear  Lord, 
For  all  beyond  is  thine. 

5  Increase  our  faith,  and  hope,  and  love ; 

Lord  give  us  all  that's  good : 
We  would  thy  full  salvation  prove, 
And  share  thy  Mesh  and  blood. 

Ee 


322  HYMN  LXVII. 

Hymn  66.    l .  m .    Struggling  against  Un belief i 

1  "P)ITY  a  helpless  sinner,  Lord, 

I       Who  would  believe  thy  gracious  word  I 
Who  owns  his  heart,  with  shame  and  grief, 
A  sink  of  sin  and  unbelief. 

2  Lord,  in  thy  house  I  read  there's  room  ; 
And  venturing  hard  behold  I  come ; 
But  can  there,  Saviour !  can  there  be, 
Among  thy  children  room  for  me  ? 

3  I  eat  the  bread,  and  drink  the  wine  : 
But  oh !  my  soul  wants  more  than  sign, 
I  faint ;  unless  1  feed  on  thee, 

And  drink  thy  blood  as  shed  for  me. 

4  For  sinners,  Lord,  thou  cam'st  to  bleed ; 
And  I'm  a  sinner  vile  indeed ! 

Lord,  I  believe  thy  grace  is  free ; 
O!  magnify  thy  grace  in  me. 

Hymn  67.    cm.    Appropriation. 

1  r-piH  AT  doleful  night  before  his  death, 

JL       The  Lamb  for  sinners  slain 
Did  almost  with  his  latest  breath 
This  solemn  feast  ordain. 

2  To  keep  thy  feast,  Lord,  we  are  met ; 

And  to  remember  thee. 
Help  each  poor  trembler  to  repeat, 
For  me,  he  died.jfor  me. 

3  Thv  suff 'rings,  Lord,  each  sacred  sign 

To  our  remembrance  brings  : 
We  eat  the  bread,  and  drink  the  wine  ; 
But  think  on  nobler  things. 

4  O,  tune  our  tongues,  and  set  in  frame 

Each  heart  that  pants  for  thee, 
To  sing,  "  Hosanna  to  the  Lamb, 
"  The  Lamb  that  died  for  me" 


HYMN  LXIX.  323 

Hy  M  N  68.    p.m.     We  celebrate  his  dying  Love. 

1  TESUS,  once  for  sinners  slain, 

J    From  the  dead  was  raised  again  ; 
And  in  heaven  is  now  set  down 
With  his  father  on  his  throne. 

2  There  he  reigns  a  king  supreme. 
We  shall  also  reign  with  him. 
Feeble  souls  be  not  dismayed  : 
Trust  in  his  almighty  aid. 

3  He  has  made  an  end  of  sin  ; 

And  his  blood  hath  washed  us  clean. 

Fear  not ;  he  is  ever  near  ; 

Now,  even  now,  he's  with  us  here. 

4  Thus  assembling,  we  by  faith, 
Till  he  come,  shew  forth  his  death. 
Of  his  body,  bread's  the  sign  : 
And  we  view  his  blood  in  wine. 

5  Saints  on  earth,  with  saints  above, 
Celebrate  his  dying  love. 

And  let  every  ransomed  soul 
Sound  his  praise  from  pole  to  pole. 

Hymn  69.    l.  m.    The  Gospel  Feast. 

1  TJOW  rich  are  thy  provisions,  Lord  ! 
XJL   Thy  table  furnished  from  above  ; 
The  fruits  of  life  o'erspread  the  board, 
The  cup  o'erflows  with  heavenly  love. 

2  Thine  ancient  family,  the  Jews, 
Were  first  invited  to  the  feast : 
We  humbly  take  what  they  refuse, 
And  Gentiles  thy  salvation  taste. 

3  We  are  the  poor,  the  blind,  the  lame, 
And  help  was  far,  and  death  was  nigh! 
But,  at  the  gospel  call,  we  came, 
And  every  want  received  supply, 


524  HYMN  LXX. 

4  From  the  highway  that  leads  to  hell, 
From  paths  of  darkness  and  despair, 
Lord,  we  are  come  with  thee  to  dwell, 
Glad  to  enjoy  thy  presence  here. 

5  What  shall  we  pay  the  eternal  Son, 
That  left  the  heaven  of  his  abode, 

And  to  this  wretched  earth  came  down> 
To  bring  us  wand'rers  back  to  God  ! 

6  It  cost  him  death  to  save  our  lives  ; 
To  buy  our  souls,  it  cost  his  own  ; 
And  all  the  unknown  joys  he  gives, 
Were  bought  with  agonies  unknown. 

7  Our  everlasting  love  is  due 

To  him  that  ransomed  sinners  lost ; 
And  pitied  rebels,  when  he  knew 
The  vast  ex  pence  his  love  would  cost, 

€  To  God  the  Father,  God  the  Son, 
And  God  the  Spirit,  Three  in  One, 
Be  honour,  praise,  and  glory  given 
By  all  on  earth,  and  all  in  heaven. 

Hymn  70.    l.  m.    Not  ashamed  of  Christ  Cru- 
cified. 

I      AT  thy  command,  our  dearest  Lord, 
iX   Here  we  attend  thy  dying  feast ; 
Thy  blood,  like  wine,  adorns  thy  board, 
And  thine  own  flesh  feeds  every  guest. 

c2  Our  faith  adores  thy  bleeding  love, 
And  trusts  for  life  in  one  that  died  ; 
We  hope  for  heavenly  crowns  above, 
From  a  Redeemer  crucified. 

3  Let  the  vain  world  pronounce  its  shame, 
And  fling  their  scandals  on  the  cause  ; 
We  come  to  boast  our  Saviour's  name. 
And  make  our  triumphs  in  his  cross, 


HYMN  LXXII.  325 

4  With  joy  we  tell  the  scoffing  age, 
He  that  was  dead  has  left  his  tomb, 
He  lives  above  their  utmost  rage, 
A.nd  we  are  waiting  till  he  come. 

Hymn  71.    cm.    Hosanna. 

1  O  HOUT  and  proclaim  the  Saviour's  love 
^     Ye  saints  that  taste  his  wine  ; 

Join  with  your  kindred  saints  above, 
In  loud  Hosannas  join. 

2  A  thousand  glories  to  our  God 

Who  gives  such  joy  as  this ; 
Hosa?ma  !  let  it  sound  abroad, 
And  reach  where  Jesus  is. 

3  To  Father,  Son  and  Holy  Ghost, 

The  God,  whom  we  adore, 
Be  glory,  as  it  was,  is  now, 
And  shall  be  evermore. 

Hymn  72.    cm.    Thanksgiving. 

1  T    ORD,  at  thy  table  I  behold 
1  a     The  wonders  of  thy  grace ; 

But  most  of  all  admire  that  I 
Should  find  a  welcome  place : 

2  I  that  am  all  defiled  with  sin, 

A  rebel  to  my  God  ; 
I  that  have  crucified  his  Son, 
And  trampled  on  his  blood. 

3  What  strange  surprising  grace  is  this, 

That  such  a  soul  has  room  ! 
My  Saviour  takes  me  by  the  hand, 

My  Jesus  bids  me  come. 
I  Eat,  O  my  friends,  the  Saviour  cries, 

The  feast  was  made  for  you  : 
For  you  I  groaned,  and  bled,  and  died, 

And  rose,  and  triumphed  too, 


326  HYMN  LXXIII. 

5  With  trembling  faith,  arid  bleeding  heart; 

Lord,  I  accept  thy  love  : 
'Tis  a  rich  banquet  I  have  had. 

What  will  it  be  above  ? 

G  Ye  saints  below,  and  hosts  of  heaven, 
Join  all  your  praising  powers  ; 
No  theme  is  like  redeeming  love, 
No  Saviour  is  like  ours. 

7  Had  I  ten  thousand  hearts,  dear  Lord, 

I'd  give  them  all  to  thee  : 
Had  I  ten  thousand  tongues,  they  all 
Should  join  the  harmony. 

8  To  father,  Son,  and  Holy  Ghost, 

The  God,  whom  we  adore, 
Be  glory,  as  it  was,  is  now, 
And  shall  be  evermore. 

Hymn  73.    s.  m.    Thanksgiving. 

1  f^  LORY  to  God  on  high  ; 

\J  Our  peace  is  made  with  heaven 
The  Son  of  God  came  down  to  die, 
That  sin  might  be  forgiven. 

2  His  precious  blood  was  shed, 
His  body  bruised,  for  sin  : 

Remember  this  in  eating  bread, 
And  this  in  drinking  wine. 

3  Approach  his  royal  board, 
In  his  rich  garments  clad  : 

Join  every  tongue  to  praise  the  Lord  ; 
And  every  heart  be  glad. 

4  The  Father  gives  the  Son  ; 
The  Son  his  flesh  and  blood  : 

The  Spirit  applies,  and  faith  puts  on 
The  righteousness  of  God. 


HYMN  LXX1V.  327 

5  Sinners,  the  gift  receive  : 
And  each  say,  "lam  chief: 

<*  Thou  know'st,  O  Lord,  I  would  believe  ; 
"  Oh  !  help  my  unbelief." 

6  Lord,  help  us  from  above  : 
The  power  is  all  thy  own. 

Faith  is  thy  gift,  and  hope,  and  love  ;     < 
For  of  ourselves  we've  none. 

Hymn  74,  to  the  end,  are  on  Miscellaneous  Subjects. 

Hymn  74.    l.  m.    The  Seasons  crowned  with 
Goodness. 

1  T^  TERNAL  source  of  every  joy  ! 

r  a  Thy  praise  shall  every  voice  employ  t 
While  in  thy  temple  we  appear 
To  hail  thee,  Sovereign  of  the  year. 

2  Wide  as  the  wheels  of  nature  roll, 

Thy  hand  supports  and  guides  the  whole  ; 
The  sun  is  taught  by  thee  to  rise, 
And  darkness  when  to  veil  the  skies. 

3  The  flowery  spring,  at  thy  command, 
Perfumes  the  air  and  paints  the  land  j 
The  summer  rays  with  vigor  shine 
To  raise  the  corn  and  cheer  the  vine. 

4  Thy  hand,  in  autumn,  richly  pours 
Through  all  our  coasts  redundant  stores ; 
While  winter's  softened  by  thy  care, 
No  face  of  want  or  horror  wear. 

5  Seasons,  and  months,  and  weeks,  and  days 
Demand  successive  songs  of  praise  ; 

And  be  the  grateful  homage  paid, 
With  morning  light,  and  evening  shade- 

6  Here  in  thy  house  let  incense  rise, 
And  circling  sabbaths  bless  our  eyes? 


328  HYMN  LXXVI. 

Till  to  those  brighter  courts  we  soai , 
Where  days  and  years  revolve  no  more. 
Hymn  75.    l.m.    For  New- Year* 

1  f>  OD  of  our  lives,  thy  constant  care 
vJT  With  blessings  crowns  each  opening  year; 
Our  guilty  lives  thou  dost  prolong, 

And  wake  anew  our  annual  song. 

2  How  many  precious  souls  are  fled 
To  the  vast  regions  of  the  dead, 
Since  from  this  day  the  changing  sun 
Through  his  last  yearly  period  run  ! 

3  Our  breath  is  thine,  eternal  God  ; 
'Tis  thine  to  fix  our  soul's  abode  ; 
We  hold  our  lives  from  thee  aione, 
On  earth,  or  in  the  world  unknown. 

4  To  thee  our  spirits  we  resign  ; 

Make  them  and  own  them  still  as  thine  ; 
So  shall  they  smile,  secure  from  fear, 
Though  death  should  blast  the  rising  year. 

Hymn  76.    p.m.    Prayer  for  blessings  on  tlw 
New-  Year. 

1  TJ  LESS,  O  Lord,  the  opening  year, 
Jj  To  each  soul  assembled  here  : 
Clothe  thy  word  with  power  divine, 
Make  us  willing  to  be  thine. 

2  Let  the  minds  of  all  our  youth 
Feel  the  force  of  sacred  truth  ; 
While  the  gospel  call  they  hear, 
May  they  learn  to  love  and  fear. 

3  Where  thou  hast  thy  work  begun, 
Give  new  strength  the  race  to  run  ; 
Scatter  darkness,  doubts  and  fears, 
Wipe  away  the  mourners'  tears- 


HYMN  LXXVIII.  329 

4  Bless  us  all,  both  old  and  young  ; 
Call  forth  praise  from  every  tongue  : 
Let  the  whole  assembly  prove 
All  thy  power,  and  all  thy  love. 

Hymn77.    cm.    Hie  birth  of  Christ. 

1  A    WAKE,  awake  the  sacred  song 
J^\_     To  our  incarnate  Lord  ; 

Let  every  heart  and  every  tongue 
Adore  the  eternal  Word. 

2  Sinners  awake,  with  angels  join, 

And  chant  the  solemn  lay  ; 
Joy,  love,  and  gratitude  combine, 
To  hail  the  auspicious  day. 

3  Then  shone  almighty  power  and  love, 

In  all  their  glorious  forms  ; 
When  Jesus  left  his  throne  above 
To  dwell  with  sinful  worms- 

4  Adoring  angels  tuned  their  songs 

To  hail  the  joyful  day  ; 
With  rapture  then,  let  mortal  tongues 
Their  grateful  worship  pay. 

5  Hail,  Prince  of  life,  forever  hail ! 

Redeemer,  brother,  friend  ! 
Though  earth,  and  time,  and  life  should  fail, 
Thy  praise  shall  never  end. 

H  y  m  n  7  8 .    p.m.    The  Song  of  Angels \ 

1  X  T"  ARK,  the  herald  angels  singf 
JLjL    "  Glory  to  the  new-born  King  ; 
"  Peace  on  earth,  and  mercy  mild, 

"  God  and  sinners  reconciled. 

2  Joyful,  all  ye  nations  rise, 
Join  the  triumph  of  the  skies  ; 

Hail  the  heaven- born  Prince  of  peace  \ 
Hail  the  Son  of  righteousness  ! 


330  HYMN  LXXX. 

3  Come,  desire  of  nations,  come, 
Fix  in  us  thy  humble  home  ; 
Come  ;  the  woman's  promised  seed. 
Bruise  in  us  the  serpent's  head. 

4  Glory  to  the  new-born  King  ! 
Let  us  all  the  anthem  sing, 

"  Peace  on  earth,  and  mercy  mild, 

"  God  and  sinners  reconciled  !" 

Hymn  79.    p.  m.    Resurrection  of  Christ. 

1  f^i HRIST,  the  Lord,  is  risen  to-day, 
Vy   Sons  of  men  and  angels  say  ; 
Raise  your  joys  and  triumphs  high, 
Sing,  ye  heavens,  and  earth  reply. 

2  Love's  redeeming  work  is  done, 
Fought  the  fight,  the  battle  won  -: 
Lo  !  the  sun's  eclipse  is  o'er, 
Lo  !  he  sets  in  blood  no  more. 

3  Vain  the  stone,  the  watch,  the  seal, 
Christ  hath  burst  the  gates  of  hell ; 
Death  in  vain  forbids  his  rise, 
Christ  hath  opened  Paradise. 

4  Lives  again  our  glorious  King  ! 

"  Where,  O  death,  is  now  thy  sting  ?" 

Once  he  died  our  souls  to  save  : 

"  Where's  thy  victory,  boasting  grave  ?" 

■?  Hail  the  Lord  of  earth  and  heaven  ! 
Praise  to  thee  by  both  be  given  ! 
Thee  we  greet  triumphant  now, 
Hail!  the  resurrection — thou. 

Hymn  80.    p.m.    The  Ascension  and  Kingdom 

of  Christ. 
1   "Q  EJOICE,  the  Lord  is  King, 
XV  Th'  ascended  King  adore ; 


HYMN  LXXXI.  331 

Mortals,  give  thanks,  and  sing 
And  triumph  evermore ! 
Lift  up  the  heart,  lift  up  the  voice- 
Rejoice  aloud,  ye  saints,  rejoice- 

2  Rejoice  the  Saviour  reigns, 
The  God  of  truth  and  love ; 
When  he  had  purged  our  stains, 
He  took  his  seat  above  : 

Lift  up  the  heart,  lift  up  the  voice, 
Rejoice  aloud,  ye  saints,  rejoice. 

3  His  kingdom  cannot  fail, 

He  rules  o'er  earth  and  heaven  ; 

The  keys  of  death  and  hell 

Are  to  our  Jesus  given  : 

Lift  up  the  heart,  lift  up  the  voice, 

Rejoice  aloud,  ye  saints,  rejoice. 

4  Rejoice  in  glorious  hope, 
Jesus  the  Judge  shall  come, 
And  take  his  servants  up 
To  their  eternal  home  : 

We  soon  shall  hear  the  Archangel's  voice, 
The  trump  of  God  shall  sound,  rejoice. 
H  y  m  n  8  i .    p.m.    Whitsunday. 

1  TlfHEN  the  blest  dav  of  Pentecost 

V  V     Was  fully  come,  'the  Holy  Ghost 
Descended  from  above ; 
Sent  by  the  Father  and  the  Son, 
(The  sender  and  the  sent  are  one) 
The  Lord  of  life  and  love. 

2  But  were  thet  first  disciples  blest 
With  heavenly  gifts  ?  And  shall  the  rest 

Be  passed  unheeded  by  ? 
What  ?  Has  the  Holy  Ghost  forgot 
To  quicken  souls  that  Christ  has  bought ; 

And  let  them  lifeless  lie  ? 


332  HYMN  LXXXII, 

3  No,  thou  almighty  Paraclete  I 

Thou  shedd  st  thy  heavenly  influence  yet ; 

Thou  visit'st  sinners  still  : 
Thy  breath  of  life,  thy  quick'ning  flame, 
Thy  power,  thy  Godhead,  still  the  same. 

We  own  ;  because  we  feel. 

PART  II.      c.  M. 

4  Blessed  God,  that  once  in  fiery  tongue? 

Cam'st  down  in  open  view, 
Come,  visit  every  heart  that  longs 
To  entertain  thee  too. 

5  And  thou  eh  not  like  a  mighty  wind, 

Nor  vvith  a  rushing  noise  ; 
May  we  thy  calmer  comforts  find, 
And  hear  thy  still  small  voice. 

6  Not  for  the  gift  of  tongues  we  pray  ; 

Nor  power  the  sick  to  heal : 

Give  wisdom  to  direct  our  way  ; 

And  strength  to  do  thy  will. 

7  We  pray  to  be  renew'd  within, 

And  reconciled  to  God  ; 
To  have  our  conscience  wash'd  from  sin 
In  the  Redeemer's  blood. 

8  We  pray  to  have  our  faith  increased  ; 

And,  O  celestial  dove  ! 
We  pray  to  be  completely  blest 
With  that  rich  blessing,  love. 

Hymn  82.    l.  m.    On  a  Fast  Day  for  the  Re- 
vival of  Religion, 

1   TNDULGENT  Sovereign  of  the  skies, 
JL   And  wilt  thou  bow  thy  gracious  ear  ? 
While  feeble  mortals  raise  their  cries, 
Wilt  thou,  the  great  Jehovah,  hear  ? 


HYMN  LXXXI1L 

2  How  shall  thy  servants  give  thee  rest, 
Till  Zioris  moulcTring  walls  thou  raise? 
Till  thy  own  power  shall  stand  confessed-, 
And  make  Jerusalem  a  praise  ? 

3  Look  down,  O  God,  with  pitying  eye  ; 
Revive  thy  work  with  power  around  ; 
See  what  wide  realms  in  darkness  lie, 
And  hurl  their  idols  to  the  ground. 

4  Loud  let  the  gospel-trumpet  blow. 
And  call  the  nations  from  afar ; 

Let  all  the  isles  their  Saviour  know, 
And  earth's  remotest  ends  draw  near. 

5  On  all  our  souls  let  grace  descend, 
Like  heavenly  dew  in  copious  showers. 
That  we  may  call  our  God  our  friend? 
That  we  may  hail  salvation  ours. 

6  Then  shall  each  age  and  rank  agree 
United  shouts  of  joy  to  raise  ; 
And  Zion,  made  a  praise  by  thee, 
To  thee  shall  render  back  the  praise. 

Hymn  83.    l.  m.    For  a  Public  Fast  in  War. 

1  T  T  7  HILE  o'er  our  guilty  land,  O  Lord, 

V  V      We  view  the  terrors  of  the  sword  ; 
Oh  !  whither  shall  the  helpless  fly  ? 
To  whom  but  thee  direct  their  cry  ? 

2  The  helpless  sinner's  cry  and  tears 
Are  grown  familiar  to  thine  ears  ; 
Oft  has  thy  mercy  sent  relief, 
When  all  was  fear  and  hopeless  grief. 

I  On  thee,  our  guardian  God,  we  call ; 
Before  thy  throne  of  grace  we  fall  ; 
And  is  there  no  deliverance  there  ? 
And  must  we  perish  in  despair  9 


334  HYMN  LXXXIV. 

4  See,  we  repent,  we  weep,  we  mourn, 
To  our  forsaken  God  we  turn  ; 

O  spare  our  guilty  country,  spare 

The  church  which  thou  hast  planted  here. 

5  We  plead  thy  grace,  indulgent  God  ; 
We  plead  thy  Son's  atoning  blood  ; 
We  plead  thy  gracious  promises, 
And  are  they  unavailing  pleas  ? 

6  These  pleas,  presented  at  thy  throne, 
Have  brought  ten  thousand  blessings  down 
On  guilty  lands  in  helpless  woe  ; 

Let  them  prevail  to  save  us  too  ! 

Hymn  84.    cm.    Thanksgiving  for  Victory. 

1  v  ■  ^O  thee,  who  reign'st  supreme  above, 

JL       And  reign'st  supreme  below, 
Thou  God  of  wisdom,  power,  and  love, 
We  our  successes  owe. 

2  The  thundering  horse,  the  martial  band 

Without  thine  aid  were  vain ; 
And  vict'ry  flies  at  thy  command 
To  crown  the  bright  campaign. 

3  Thy  mighty  arm,  unseen,  was  nigh. 

When  we  our  foes  assailed  ; 
'Tis  thou  hast  raised  our  honours  high, 
And  o'er  their  hosts  prevailed. 

4  Their  mounds,  their  camps,  their  lofty  towers 

Into  our  hands  are  given, 
Not  from  desert  or  strength  of  ours, 
But  through  the  grace  of  heaven. 

5  The  Lord  of  hosts,  our  helper  lives  ; 

His  name  be  ever  blest ; 
■Tis  his  own  arm  the  vict'ry  gives  ; 
He  grants  his  people  rest. 


HYMN  LXXXVI.  335 

Hymn  85.    l.  m.    Thanksgivi?ig  for  National 
Peace, 

1  f^  REAT  Ruler  of  the  earth  and  skies, 
V_X  A  word,  of  thine  almighty  breath 
Can  sink  the  world,  or  bid  it  rise  ; 

Thy  smile  is  life,  thy  frown  is  death. 

2  When  angry  nations  rush  to  arms, 
And  rage,  and  noise,  and  tumult  reign, 
And  war  resounds  its  dire  alarms, 

And  slaughter  spreads  the  hostile  plains  ; 

3  Thy  Sovereign  eye  looks  calmly  down, 
And  marks  their  course,  &  bounds  their  power, 
Thy  word  the  angry  nations  own, 

And  noise  and  war  are  heard  no  more. 

4  Thou  good,  and  wise,  and  righteous  Lord. 
All  move  subservient  to  thy  will  ; 

And  peace  and  war  await  thy  word;, 
And  thy  sublime  decrees  fulfil. 

5  To  thee  we  pay  our  grateful  songs , 
Thy  kind  protection  still  implore  ; 

O  may  our  hearts,  and  lives,  and  tongues, 
Confess  thy  goodness  and  adore. 

Hymn  86.    l.  m.    Complaint  and  Hope  in  Sick 
ness. 

1  T    ORD,  lam  pain'd  ;  but  I  resign 

I  a   My  body  to  thy  will ; 
?Tis  grace, 'tis  wisdom  all  divine. 
Appoints  the  pains  I  feel. 

2  I  own  thy  providence,  my  God  ! 

In  ev'ry  chastening  stroke  ; 
But  while  I  smart  beneath  thy  rod, 
Thy  presence  I  invoke. 

3  Is  not  some  blessed  hour  at  hand 

With  health  upon  its  wings  ? 


336  HYMN  LXXXVIII. 

Give  it,  O  God,  thy  swift  command, 

With  all  the  joys  it  brings. 
■I  To  thee  my  Saviour,  and  my  Lord., 

I  now  myself  resign  ; 
In  life  and  death,  I  trust  thy  word, 

I  am  for  ever  thine. 

Hymn  87.   s.  m.   Submission  under  Affliction, 

1  T~"\OST  thou  my  profit  seek, 
\j     And  chasten  as  a  friend  ? 
O  God,  I'll  kiss  the  smarting  rod  ; 

There's  hope  yet  in  my  end. 

2  Dost  thou  through  death's  dark  vale 

Conduct  to  heaven  at  last  ? 
The  future  good  will  make  amends 

For  all  the  evil  past. 
>  Lord,  I  would  not  repine 

At  strokes  in  mercy  sent ; 
If  the  chastisement  comes  in  love, 

My  soul  shall  be  content. 

Hymn  88.    l.  m.    Praise  for  recovery  from 
Sickness. 

1  A    WHILE  remained  the  doubtful  strife, 
JljL   Till  Jesus  gave  me  back  my  life  ; 
My  life  ? — my  soul,  recall  the  word, 

'Tis  life  to  see  thy  gracious  Lord. 

2  Why  inconvenient  now  to  die  ? 
Vile  unbelief,  O  tell  me  why  ? 
When  can  it  inconvenient  be, 

My  loving  Lord,  to  come  to  thee  ? 

3  He  saw  me  made  the  sport  of  hell, 
He  knew  the  tempter's  malice  well ; 
And  when  my  soul  had  all  to  fear, 
Then  did  the  glorious  sun  appear  ! 


HYMN  XC.  337 

4  O  bless  him  ! — bless,  ye  dying  saints, 
The  God  of  grace,  when  nature  faints  ! 
He  shewed  my  flesh  the  gaping  grave- 
To  shew  me,  he  had  power  to  save. 
Hymn  89.    cm.    Morning  Hymn. 

1  /~\  NCE  more,  my  soul,  the  rising  clay 
\J     Salutes  thy  waking  eyes  ; 

Once  more,  my  voice,  thy  tribute  pay 
To  him  that  rolls  the  skies. 

2  Night  unto  night  his  name  repeats, 

The  day  renews  the  sound, 
Wide  as  the  heaven  on  which  he  sits, 
To  turn  the  seasons  round. 

3  'Tis  he  supports  my  mortal  frame, 

My  tongue  should  speak  his  praise  ; 
My  sins  would  rouse  his  wrath  to  flame. 
And  yet  his  wrath  delays. 

4  A  thousand  wretched  souls  are  fled 

Since  the  last  setting  sun, 
And  yet  thou  length'nest  out  my  thread, 
And  yet  my  moments  run. 

5  Dear  God,  let  all  my  hours  be  thine, 

Whilst  I  enjoy  the  light : 
Then  shall  my  soul  in  smiles  decline, 
And  bring  a  pleasant  night. 

Hymn  90.    cm.    Evening  Hymn. 

1  T"     ORD,  thou  wilt  hear  me  when  I  pray  ; 

I  a     I  am  for  ever  thine  ; 
I  fear  before  thee  all  the  day, 
Nor  would  I  dare  to  sin. 

2  And  while  I  rest  my  weary  head, 

From  cares  and  business  free, 

3 Tis  sweet  conversing  on  my  bed3 

With  my  own  heart  and  thee, 


338  HYMN  XCIL 

3  I  pay  this  evening  sacrifice  ; 

And  when  my  work  is  done, 
Great  God,  my  faith  and  hope  relies 
Upon  thy  grace  alone. 

4  Thus  with  my  thoughts  composed  to  peace, 

I'll  give  mine  eyes  to  sleep  : 
Thy  hand  in  safety  keeps  my  days, 

And  will  my  slumbers  keep. 
Hymn  91.    s.m.    Lord's  Day  Morning. 

1  T17ELC0ME  sweet  day  of  rest, 

V  V       That  saw  the  Lord  arise  ; 
Welcome  to  this  reviving  breast, 
And  these  rejoicing  eyes  ! 

2  The  King  himself  comes  near, 

And  feasts  his  saints  to-day  ; 
There  we  may  sit,  and  see  him  there, 
And  love,  and  praise,  and  pray. 

3  One  day  amidst  the  place 

Where  my  great  God  hath  been, 
Is  sweeter  than  ten  thousand  days 
Of  pleasurable  sin. 

Hymn  92.    cm.    Lord's  Day  Evening. 

1  T^REQUENT  the  day  of  God  returns 
JL        To  shed  its  quick'ning  beams  ; 
And  yet  how  slow  devotion  burns  ! 

How  languid  are  its  flames  ! 

2  Accept  our  faint  attempts  to  love, 

Our  frailties,  Lord,  forgive  ; 
We  would  be  like  thy  saints  above, 
And  praise  thee  while  we  live. 

3  Increase,  O  Lord,  our  faith  and  hope, 

And  fit  us  to  ascend, 
Where  the  assembly  ne'er  breaks  up, 
The  sabbath  ne'er  shall  end. 


HYMN  XCV.  539 

Hymn  93.    l.  m.    Dismission. 

1  T"\ISMISS  us  with  thy  blessing,  Lord, 
JL/  Help, us  to  feed  upon  thy  word, 
All  that  has  been  amiss,  forgive, 

And  let  thy  truth  within  us  live. 

2  Though  we  are  guilty,  thou  art  good, 
Wash  all  our  works  hi  Jesu's  blood  ; 
Give  every  fettered  soul  release, 
And  bid  us  all  depart  in  peace. 

Hymn  94.    l.  m.    The  Spread  of  the  Gospel, 

1  r  |  ^O  distant  lands  thy  gospel  send, 

A      And  thus  thy  empire  wide  extend  ; 
To  Gentile,  savage,  Turk,  and  Jew, 
Thou  King  of  grace  !  salvation  shew. 

2  Where'er  thy  sun,  or  light  arise, 
Thy  name,  O  God  !  immortalize  : 
May  nations  yet  unborn  confess, 

Thy  wisdom,  power,  and  righteousness. 

Hymn  95.    cm.    Song  of  Moses  and  the  Lamb, 

1  X  X  7E  sing  the  glories  of  thy  love, 

V  V       We  sound  thy  dreadful  name  ; 
The  christian  church  unites  the  songs 
Of  Moses  and  the  Lamb. 

2  Great  God,  how  wondrous  are  thy  works 

Of  vengeance,  and  of  grace  ! 
Thou  King  of  saints,  Almighty  Lord, 
How  just  and  true  thy  ways  ! 

3  Who  dares  refuse  to  fear  thy  name, 

Or  worship  at  thy  throne  ! 
Thy  judgments  speak  thine  holiness, 
Through  ail  the  nations  known, 


340  HYMN  XCVIL 

Hymn  96.    cm.    Song  of  Zacharias . 

1  XJOW  be  the  God  of  Israel  blessed 
i/N|      Who  makes  his  truth  appear  ; 
His  mighty  hand  fulfils  his  word, 

And  all  the  oaths  he  sware^ 

2  Now  he  bedews  King  David's  root 

With  blessings  from  the  skies  ; 
He  makes  the  Branch  of  promise  grow, 
The  promised  Horn  arise. 

3  "  Be  every  vale  exalted  high, 

u  Sink  every  mountain  low; 
"  The  proud  must  stoop,  and  humble  souls 
"  Shall  his  salvation  know. 

4  "  The  heathen  realm  with  Israel's  land 

"  Shall  join  in  sweet  accord  ; 
"  And  those  that  sit  in  darkness  see 
"  The  glory  of  the  Lord." 

Hymn  97.    l.  m.    Song  of  Mary. 

1  /^\UR  souls  shall  magnify  the  Lord, 
\_/   In  God  the  Saviour  we  rejoice  ; 
While  we  repeat  the  Virgin's  song, 
May  the  same  spirit  tune  our  voice. 

2  Let  every  nation  call  her  blessed, 
And  endless  years  prolong  her  fame  ; 
But  God  alone  must  be  adored ; 
Holy  and  rev 'rend  is  his  name. 

3  He  spake  to  Abraham  and  his  seed, 
In  thee  shall  all  the  earth  be  blessed : 
The  mem'ry  of  that  ancient  word 
Lay  long  in  his  eternal  breast. 

4  But  now  no  more  shall  Israel  wait. 
No  more  the  Gentiles  lie  forlorn ; 
Lo,  the  desire  of  nations  comes  ; 
Behold  the  promised  seed  is  born  ! 


HYMN  XCIX.  341 

Hymn  98.    cm.    Song  of  Simeon. 

1  ORD,  let  thy  servant  now  depart 
P  ^     Into  thy  promised  rest ; 

Since  my  expecting  eyes  have  been 
With  thy  salvation  blessed  ; 

2  Which  till  this  time  thy  favoured  saints 

And  prophets  only  knew, 
Long  since  prepared,  but  now  set  forth 
In  all  the  people's  view. 

3  A  light,  to  shew  the  heathen  world 

The  way  of  saving  grace, 
Also  the  light  and  glory  both 
Of  Israel's  chosen  race. 

4  To  Father,  Son  and  Holy  Ghost, 

The  God,  whom  we  adore, 
Be  glory,  as  it  was,  is  now, 
And  shall  be  ever  more. 

Hymn  99.    p.m.    A  Prospect  of  Eternity* 

1  O  !  on  a  narrow  neck  of  land, 

1  a  'Twixt  two  unbounded  seas  I  stand, 
Yet  how  insensible  ! 
A  point  of  time,  a  moment's  space, 
Removes  me  to  yon  heavenly  place, 
Or — shuts  me  up  in  hell. 

2  O  God,  my  inmost  soul  convert, 
And  deeply  on  my  thoughtful  heart 

Eternal  things  impress  ; 
Give  me  to  feel  their  solemn  weight, 
And  save  me  ere  it  be  too  late, 

Wake  me  to  righteousness. 

3  Before  me  place,  in  bright  array, 
The  pomp  of  that  tremendous  day, 

When  thou  with  clouds  shalt  come 


342  HYMN  C. 

To  judge  the  nations  at  thy  bar: 
And  tell  me,  Lord,  shall  I  be  there 
To  meet  a  joyful  doom  : 

4  Be  this  my  one  great  business  here, 
With  holy  trembling,  holy  fear, 

To  make  my  calling  sure  ! 
Thine  utmost  counsel  to  fulfil, 
And  suffer  all  thy  righteous  will, 

And  to  the  end  endure  ! 

5  Then  Saviour,  then  my  soul  receive. 
Transported  from  this  vale,  to  live 

And  reign  with  thee  above  ; 
Where  faith  is  sweetly  lost  in  sight, 
And  hope,  in  full  supreme  delight 

And  everlasting  love. 

Hymn  100.    l.  k.    A  Covenant  God. 

1  "TN  thee,  O  God,  we  put  our  trust, 

X  Thy  hands  have  formed  us  from  the  dust, 
Thou  hast  preserved  us  to  this  hour, 
The  monuments  of  grace  and  power. 

2  Thou  art  our  God,  our  cov'nant  God, 
By  oath  and  promise  sealed  with  blood  ; 
Through  faith  in  Christ  we  make  this  claim 
And  call  thee  by  that  blessed  name. 

3  The  world  and  fleshly  lusts  combine, 
Our  faith  and  hope  to  undermine  ; 
While  satan  joins  his  savage  power 
Our  souls  to  frighten  or  devour. 

4  Too  weak  in  our  own  strength  to  stand, 
We  seek  protection  from  thy  hand  ; 
Their  dread  assaults  and  rage  control, 
And  in  these  conflicts  save  our  soul. 

5  Encouraged  by  thine  oath  and  wrord, 
We  dare  rely  upon  the  Lord ; 


DOXOLOGIES.  345 

Grace  shall  prevail  against  the  foe, 
And  God  will  bring  us  safely  through. 


■&i 


DOXOLOGIES. 

I.  e-  m> 

1  f^i  LORY  to  God  the  Father's  name, 
vJT     Who  from  our  sinful  race, 
Chose  out  his  people  to  proclaim 

The  honours  of  his  grace. 

2  Glory  to  God  the  Son  fee  paid, 

Who  dwelt  in  humble  clay, 
And,  to  redeem  us  from  the  dead, 
Gave  his  own  life  away. 

3  Glory  to  God  the  Spirit  give, 

From  whose  almighty  power 
Our  souls  their  heavenly  birth  derive, 
And  bless  the  happy  hour. 

4  Glory  to  God  that  reigns  above, 

The  eternal  Three  in  One, 
Who,  by  the  wonders  of  his  love, 
Has  made  his  nature  known. 

II.  I  m. 

TO  God  the  Father,  God  the  Son, 
And  God  the  Spirit,  Three  in  One, 
Be  honour,  praise,  and  glory  given, 
By  ail  on  earth,  and  ail  in  heaven. 

III.     c  m. 

TO  Father,  Son  and  Holy  Ghost, 
The  God,  whom  we  adore. 
Be  glory,  as  it  was,  is  now, 
\nd  shall  be  evermore. 


344  DOXOLOGIES. 

IV.     c  m. 

TO  praise  the  Father  and  the  Son, 
And  Spirit  all  divine, 
The  One  in  Three,  and  Three  in  One, 
Let  saints  and  angels  join. 

V.  s.  m. 

GIVE  to  the  Father  praise, 
Give  glory  to  the  Son, 
And  to  the  Spirit  of  his  grace 
Be  equal  honour  done. 

VI.  p  m. 

TO  God  the  Father's  throne 
Perpetual  honours  raise, 
Glory  to  God  the  Son, 
To  God  the  Spirit  praise  : 
With  all  our  powers, 
Eternal  King, 
Thy  name  we  sing, 
While  faith  adores,. 


END   OF    THE    HYMNS 


THE 

HEIDELBERGH  CATECHISM, 

OR 

METHOD  OF  INSTRUCTION 

IN    THE 

CHRISTIAN  RELIGION. 

As  the  same  is  taught  in  the  Reformed  Churches  and 
Schools  in  Holland,  together  with 

THE  ARTICLES  OF  FAITH,  AND  LITURGY 
OF  SAID  CHURCH. 

Translated  for  the  use  of  the  Reformed  Protestant 
Dutch  Church  of  the  City  of  New- York. 


THE 

HEIDELBERGH  CATECHISM. 

I.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q.   1.   \T7HAT    is    thy   only  comfort   in   life  and 

VV  death? 
A.  That  I  with*  body  and  soul,  both  in  life  and  death,f 
am  not  my  own,  but  belong^  unto  my  faithful  Saviour 
Jesus  Christ,  who  with  his  precious  §  blood  hath  fully  |j 
satisfied  for  all  my  sins,  and  delivered  1  me  from  all  the 
power  of  the  devil ;  and  so  preserves  me  **  that  without 
the  will  of  my  heavenly  Father,  not  a  hair  f  t  can  fall  from 
my  head  ;  yea  that  all  tilings  must  be  ft  subservient  to  my 
salvation,  and  therefore  by  his  holy  spirit,  he  also  assures 
me  §§  of  eternal  life,  and  makes  ||||  me  sincerely  willing  and 
ready,  henceforth,  to  live  unto  him. 

*  1    Cor  6.    19,  20.     Htb  2.  14,  15.        ft  Rom   8.  28. 
t   Bo  14.  7,  8,  9.         **  John  6.  S9,  and  §§  2  Cor  1.  22. 
}    1    Cor    3.   23.  10.   28,  29.  and  5.  5. 
§    1   Ret   1.18,19.      tfLuke2\.    18.        |j||  Rom  8.  14. 
||   1  John  1.  7.            Mat  10.  30.                  and  7.  22. 
V    1  John  3.  8. 

Q.  2.  How  many  things  are  necessary  for  thee  to  know, 
that  thou,  enjoying  this  comfort,  mayestlive  and  die  hap- 
pily ? 

A.  Three  ;  *  the  first  how  great  f  my  sins  and  miseries 
are  :  the  second,  how  I  may  be  delivered  J  from  all  my 
sins  and  miseries  :  the  third,  how  I  shall  express  my  grat- 
itude §  to  God  for  such  deliverance. 

*  Luke  24.  47.       f  John  9.  41,  Rom.   \  John  17.  3 

t   Cor  6.   10,   11.       3.    10,   19.  §  Efih  5.  8,  9,  10. 

THE    FIRST    TART. 

OF  THE  MISERY  OF  MAN. 

II.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q.  3.  Whence  knowest  thou  thy  misery  ? 
A.  Out  of  the  law  of  God.* 
*  Bom  3.  20. 


OF  THE  MISERY  OF  MAN. 

Q.  4.  What  cloth  the  Lav  of  God  require  of  us  ? 

A.  Christ  tenches  us  that  briefly.  Mat.  xxii.  37,  40. 
"  Thou  shalt  love  the  Lord  thy  God  with  all  thy  heart, 
"  with  all  thy  soul,  with  all  thy  mind,  and  with  all  thy 
"  strength.  *Thrs  is  the  first  and  the  great  command, 
"  and  the  second  is  like  to  this,  Thou  shalt  love  thy  neigh- 
«  hour  as  thyself.  On  these  two  commando  hang  the 
k<  whole  law  and  the  prophets." 

*  Luke  10.   27. 

Q.  5.  Canst  thou  keep  all  these  things  perfectly  ? 

A.  In  no  wise  ;*  for  I  am  prone  by  nature  to  hate  God 
and  my  neighbour.! 
*  Rom  3.    10.        1   John  1.8.  f   Iloin  3.  7.  Tit  3.  3. 


III.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q.  6.  Did  God  then  create  man  so  wicked  and  perverse  ■? 

A.  By  no  means  ;  but  God  created  man  good,  *  and  af- 
ter his  own  image,  in  f  righteousness  and  true  holiness, 
that  he  might  rightly  know  God  his  Creator,  heartily  love 
him,  and  live  with  him  in  eternal  happiness  to  glorify  and 
praise  him4 

*  Gen  1.  31.  Col  3.    10.  \  Ejih    1.   6. 
f  Gen    1.  26,  27.       Efih  4.  24.  1    Cor   6.   20. 

Q.  7.  Whence  then  proceeds  this  depravity  of  human 
nature  ? 

A.  From  the  fall  and  disobedience  of  our  first  parents, 
Adam  and  Eve,* in  Paradise;  hence  our  nature  is  be- 
come so  corrupt,  that  we  are  all  conceived  and  born  in  sin.f 

*  Gen  3.   6.      Ro?n  5.  12,  18,    19       f  Ps  51.  5.  Gen  5.   3. 
Q.  8.  Are  we  then  so  corrupt  that  we  are  wholly  inca- 
pable of  doing  any  good,  and  inclined  to  all  wickedness  ? 

A.  Indeed  we  are  ;*  except  we  are  regenerated  by  the 
spirit  of  God.f 

*  Gen  6.  5.     Job  14.  4,  and  15.  14,  16. 
t  John  3.   5.  Ejih  2.  5. 

IV.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q.  9.  Doth  not  God  then  do  injustice  to  man,  by  re- 
quiring from  him  in  his  law,  thatwhich  he  cannot  perform  ? 
A.  Not  at  all:*  For  God  made  man  capable  t  of  per- 


4  OF  MAN'S  DELIVERANCE. 

orming  it :  but  man,  by  the  instigation  \  of  the  devil,  an5 
his  own  wilful  disobedience,  §  deprived  himself  and  all  his 
posterity  of  those  divine  gifts. 

*  Eccl  7.  29.  |  Gen  3.  4,  7. 

t  Efih  4.   24.  Col.  3.  10.         §  Rom  5.  12. 

Q.  10.  Will  God  suffer  such  disobedience  and  rebellion 
to  go  unpunished  ? 

A.  By  no  means  :*  but  is  terribly  displeased  t  with  our 
original  as  well  as  actual  sins  ;  and  will  punish  them  in  his 
just  judgment  temporally  and  eternally,  as  he  hath  declar- 
ed,! "Cursed  is  every  one  that  continueth  not  in  all 
"  things,  which  are  written  h\ the  book  of  the  law,  to  do 
« them." 

*  Ps  5.  5.  f  Rom  1.  18.  Deut  28.  15.  Heb  9.  27> 
t  Deut  27.  26.        Gal  3.    10. 

Q   11.  Is  not  God  then  also  merciful  ? 

A.  God  is  indeed  merciful,  *  but  also  just ;  t  therefore 
his  justice  requires,  J  that  sin  which  is  committed  against 
the  most  high  majesty  of  God,  be  also  punished  with  ex- 
treme, that  is,  with  everlasting  §  punishment,  both  of 
kody  and  soul. 

*Ex  34.  6.       t  Ex  20.  5.       Job  34.  10,  1 1.  \  Ps  5.  5. 

§  Gen  2.  17.       Rom  6.  23. 

THE    SECOND    PART. 

OF  MAN'S  DELIVERANCE. 

V.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q.  12.  Since  then,  by  the  righteous  judgment  of  God, 
we  deserve  temporal  and  eternal  punishment,  is  there  no 
way  by  which  we  may  escape  that  punishment,  and  be 
again  received  into  favour  ? 

A.  God  will  have  his  justice  *  satisfied;  and  therefore 
we  must  make  this  full  t  satisfaction,  either  by  ourselves, 
or  by  another. 

*Ex  20.  5.       f  Rom  3.  3.      2   Coy-  5.  14,  15. 

Q.   13.  Can  we  ourselves  then  make  this  satisfaction  ? 

A.  By  no  means  ;  *  but  on  the  contrary  we  t  daily  in- 
crease our  debt. 

*  Job  9.  2,  3.  and  15.  14,  15,  16.    t  Mat  6.  12.  Isa  64.  6. 


Or  MAN'S  DELIVERANCE.  5 

Q.  14.  Can  there  then  be  found  any  where,  one  who  is 
a  mere  creature,  able  to  satisfy  for  us  ? 

A.  None  ;  for  first,  God  will  not  *  punish  any  other 
creature  for  the  sin  which  man  hath  committed  ;  and  fur- 
ther, no  mere  creature  can  sustain  the  burden  of  God's 
eternal  wrath  against  sin,  so  as  to  t  deliver  others  from  it. 
*  Heb   2.  14,  18.    t  Ps  130.  3.  and  49.  8,  9. 

Q.  15.  What  sort  of  a  mediator  and  deliverer  then  must 
we  seek  for  ? 

A.  For  one  who  is  very  man,  *  and  perfectly  righteous  ; 
and  yet  more  powerful  than  all  creatures  ;  that  is,  one  who 
is  also  very  t  God. 

*  1  Cor  15.  21.     Rom  8.  3.     t  Rom  9.  5.    Iaa  7.  14. 

VI.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q.  16.  Why  must  he  be  very  man,  and  also  perfectly 
righteous  ? 

A.  Because  the  justice  of  God  requires  that  the  same 
human  nature,  which  hath  sinned,  should  *  likewise  make 
satisfaction  for  sin  ;  and  one  who  is  himself  a  sinner  f  can- 
not satisfy  for  others. 

*  Rom  5.  12,  15.      t  1  Pet  3.  18.    Isa  53.  Itt 

Q.   17.  Why  must  he  in  one  person  be  also  very  God  ? 

A.  That  he  might,  by  the  power  of  his  Goclheud,*  sus- 
tain in  his  human  nature,  the  burthen  of  God's  wrath  ;  and 
might  f  obtain  for,  and  restore  to  us,  righteousness  acd 
life. 

*  1  Pet  3.  18.     Ac ts  2.  24.       Isa  53.  8. 

t  1  John  1.  2»     Jev  2  3.  6.     2  Tim  1.  10.     John  6.  51. 

Q.  1 8.  Who  then  is  that  mediator,  who  is  in  one  person 
both  very  God,  and  a  real  righteous  jngu  I 

A.  Our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,*  "  who  of  God  is  made  un- 
to t  us  wisdom,  and  righteousness,  and  sanctiftcation,  and 
redemption." 

*  Mat  1.  23.     1  Tim  3.  16.    Luke  2.  11.    j  \  Cor  1.  30. 
Q.    19.  Whence  kr.owest  thou  this  ? 

A.  From  the  holy  gospel,  which  God  himself  revealed 
first  in  Paradise  ;*  and  afterwards  published  by  the  patri- 
archs t  and  prophets,  and  was  pleased  to  repieser.t  it-  bv 
the  shadows  J  of  sacrifices  and  the  other  ceremonies  ci  the 

*  Gen.  3.  15.  f  Gen.  22.  17,  18,  and  28.  14.  Rom.  1.  2 
Heb.  1.1.     \  John  5.  46.    Heb.  10.  7,  8. 

A  2 


6  OF  MAN'S  DELIVERANCE. 

law  ;  and  lastly,  has  accomplished  it  §  by  his  only  begot- 
ten Son. 

§Rom  10.  4     Heb  13.  8 


VII.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q.  20.  Are  all  men  then,  as  they  perished  in  Adam, 
saved  by  Christ  ? 

A.  No  ;  only  *  those  who  are  ingrafted  into  him,f  and 
received  all  his  benefits,  by  a  true  faith. 

*  Mat    1.  21       Isa  53.  11 

t  John  1.  12,  13     .Rom  11.20      Heb\0.39 

Q.  2 1 .  What  is  true  faith  ? 

A.  True  faith  is  not  only  a  certain  knowledge,  *where- 
by  I  hold  for  truth  all  that  God  has  revealed  to  us  in  his 
word,  but  also  an  assured  {  confidence,  which  the  Holy  § 
Ghost  works  by  the  gospel,||  in  my  heart ;  that  not  only  to 
others,  but  to  me  also,  f  remission  of  sin,  everlasting 
righteousness  **  and  salvation,  are  freely  given  by  God,tt 
merely  of  grace,  only  for  the  sake  of  Christ's  merits. 
*  John  6.  69  John  17.  3  Heb  11.3,6  f  Rom  2.  18, 19,20 
$  .Rom  4.  16,20,  21     Heb  11.  1      £fihS.\2      Rom  1.  16 

1  Cor  1.  21     Acts  16.  14  Mat  16.  17    John  3.  5 
§Ro?n  10.  14,  17      Mat  9.2     %  Rom  5.  I      **  Gal  2.  20 
tf  Rom  3.  24,25,  26 

Q.  22  What  is  then  necessary  for  a  Christian  to  believe  ? 

A.  All  things  *  promised  us  in  the  gospel,  which  the 
articles  of  our  Catholic  undoubted  christian  faith  briefly 
teach  us. 

*  John  20.  31    Mat  28.  19,  20 
Q.  23  What  are  these  articles  ? 

A.  I.  I  believe  in  God,  the  Father  almighty,  maker  of 
heaven  and  earth  : 

II.  And  in  Jesus  Christ,  his  only  begotten  Son,  our 
Lord: 

III.  Who  was  conceived  by  the  Holy  Ghost,  born  of 
the  Virgin  Mary  : 

IV.  Suffered  under  Pontius  Pilate ;  was  crucified,  dead, 
and  buried  :  He  descended  into  Hell : 

V.  The  third  day  he  rose  again  from  the  dead  : 

VI.  He  ascended  into  heaven,  and  sitteth  at  the  right 
hand  of  God  the  Father  Almighty : 


OF  GOD  THE  FATHER.  7 

VII.  From  thence  he  shall  come  to  judge  the  quick  and 
the  dead  : 

VIII.  I  believe  in  the  Holy  Ghost : 

IX.  I  believe  an  holy  Catholic  Church  :  the  communion 
of  saints  : 

X.  The  forgiveness  of  sins  : 

XL  The  resurrection  of  the  body  : 
XII.  And  the  life  everlasting.     Amen. 

VIII.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q.  24  How  are  these  articles  divided  ? 

A.  Into  three  parts  ;  the  first  is  of  God  the  Father,  and 
our  creation  ;*  the  second  of  God  the  Son,  and  our  re- 
demption ;t  the  third  of  God  the  Holy  Ghost,  and  ouu 
sanctification.J 

*  Gen  1    f  1  Pet  1.  18,  19    $  1  Pet  1.  21,22 

Q.  25  Since  there  is  only  but  one*  divine  essence,  why 
speakest  thou  of  Father,  Son  and  Holy  Ghost  ? 

A.  Because  God  hath  sot  revealed  himself  in  his  word, 
that  these  three  distinct  persons  are  the  one  only  true  and 
eternal  God. 

*  Deut  6.  4 

t  Gen  1.  26     Isa  61.  1  John  14.  16, 17  1  John  5.  7  John 
1.  18    Mat  28.  19    2  Cor  13.  14 

OF  GOD  THE  FATHER, 

IX.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  26  What  believest  thou  when  thou  sayest,  «  I  be- 
lieve in  God  the  Father  Almighty  maker  of  Heaven  and 
Earth  ?" 

A  That  the  eternal  Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ 
(who*  of  nothing  made  heaven  and  earth,  with  all  that  is 
in  them  ;  who  likewise  upholds  and  f  governs  the  same 
by  his  eternal  counsel  and  providence)  is  for  the  sake  of 
Christ  his  Son,  my  God  and  my  Father  ;  on  whom  I  re- 
ly so  entirely,  that  I  have  no  doubt,  but  he  will  provide 
me  with  all  things  necessary  §  for  soul  and  body  :  and  fur- 
ther, that  he  will  make  whatever  evils  he  sends  upon  me, 
*  Gen  1  and  2  Psalm  33,  6 
t  Ps  115.  3  Mat  10.  29  Heb  1.  3  John  5.  17 
\John\.\2  Horn  8.  15,  16  Gal  4.  5,6  Mfih  1.  5,1  John  3.1 
§Ps  55.   22     Mat  6.  26 


8  OF  GOD  THE  SON. 

in  this  valley  oftears,||  turn  out  to  my  advantage  ;  for  he 
is  able  to  do  it,  being  Almightyt  God,  and  willing,  being  a 
**  faithful  Father. 

\\Rom  8.   28      f  Rom  10.   12 
**  Mat'6.  26  and  7.  9,  10,  11 


X.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  27  What  dost  thou  mean  by  the  providence  of  God  ? 

A  The  Almighty  and  every  where  present  power  of 
God  ;*  whereby,  as  it  were  by  his  hand,  he  f  upholds  and 
governs  heaven,  earth,  and  all  creatures  ;  so  that  herbs 
and  grass,  rain  \  and  drought,  fruitful  §  and  barren  years, 
meat  and  drink,|j  health  and  sickness,  T[  riches  and  pover- 
ty, yea,  all  things  **  come,  not  by  chance,  but  by  ins  fa- 
therly hand. 

*  Acts  17.  25,  26,  27,  28    t  Heb  1.  3    $ /<?r  5.  24 
§Acts  14.  17  \\John  9.  3    f  Prov  22.  2  Job  1.  21 
**  Mat  10.  29,  30     Eph  1.11 

Q  28  What  advantage  is  it  to  us  to  know  that  God  has 
created,  and  by  his  providence  doth  still  uphold  all  things  ? 

A  That  we  may  be  patient  in  adversity,*  thankful  t  in 
prosperity ;  and  that  in  all  things,  which  may  hereafter 
befal  us,  we  place  our  firm  \  trust  in  our  faithful  God  and 
Father,  that  nothing  shall  §  separate  us  from  his  love, 
since  all  creatures  are  so  in  his  hand,  that  without  his  will 
they  ||  cannot  so  much  as  move. 

*  Rom  5.  3     Ps  39.  10     f  Deut  8.  10    1  Thes  5.  18 
|  Rom  5.  4,  5,  6     §  Rom  8.  38,  39 

Job  1.  12,  and  2.  6    Matt  8.  31     Jsa  10.  15 

OF  GOD  THE  SON. 

XI.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  29  Why  is  the  Son  of  God  called  Jesus,  that  is  a 
Saviour  ? 

A  Because  he  saveth  us,  and  delivereth  us  from  our 
*  sins  ;  and  likewise,  because  we  ought  not  to  seek,  nei- 
ther can  find  t  salvation  in  any  other. 
*  Matt    1.  21    \  Acts  4.  12 

Q  30  Do  such  then  believe  in  Jesus  the  only  Saviour, 
who  seek  their  salvation  and  happiness  of  saints,  or  them- 
selves, or  any  where  else  ? 


OF  GOD  THE  SON".  » 

A  They  do  not ;  for  though  they  boast  of  him  in  words, 
yet  in  deeds  they  deny*  Jesus  the  only  deliverer  una  Sa- 
viour ;  for  one  of  these  two  things  must  be  true,  that  ei* 
ther  Jesus  is  not  a  complete  Saviour  ;  or  that  they  who  by 
a  true  faith  receive  this  Saviour,  must  find  all  things  in 
him  t  necessary  to  their  salvation. 
*  1  Cor  1.  13,  31.  Gal  5.  4 
i  Heb  12.2     Isa9.6,  7      Co/1.  19,  20 

XII.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q.  31.  Why  is  he  called  Christ,  that  is  anointed  ? 

A.  Because  he  is  ordained  of  God  the  Father,  and  * 
anointed  with  the  Holy  Ghost,  to  be  our  f  chief  prophet 
and  teacher  ;  who  has  fully  revealed  to  us  the  secret  coun- 
cil and  will  of  God  concerning  our  redemption  :  and  to  be 
our  only  High  Priest,  J  who  by  the  one  sacrifice  of  his 
body,  has  redeemed  us,  and  makes  continual  §  intercession 
with  the  Father  for  us  ;  and  also  to  be  our  eternal  King,f| 
who  governs  us  by  his  word  and  spirit ;  and  who  defends 
and  T  preserves  us  in  (the  enjoyment  of)  that  salvation  he 
has  purchased  for  us. 
*Heb  1.9.       t  Deut  IS.  18.     Jets  3.  22.  John  1.  18,  and 

15,15.     Matt  \  I.  27. 
fPtfallO.  4.    Heb7.  21,  and  10.  14.      §  Rom  8.  34. 
|)  Psa  2.  6.  Luke  1.  33.     f  Matt  28.    John  10.  28. 

Q.  32  But  why  art  thou  called  a  christian  ? 

A  Because  I  am  a  member  of  Christ  *  by  faith,  and 
thus  am  partaker  t  of  his  anointing,  that  so  I  may  \  con- 
fess his  name,  and  present  myself  a  living  §  sacrifice  of 
thankfulness  to  him:  and  also  that  with  a  free  and  good 
conscience  I  may  fight  against  sin  and  ||  satan  in  this  life  ; 
and  afterward sIF  reign  withhim  eternally,  over  all  creatures. 

*  1  Cor  6.  15.    t  1  John  2.  27.  Joel  2.  28.    J  Matt  10,  32. 
§  Rom  12.    1.    Jfio  1.  6 

\\Ejih6.  11,  12.    1  Tim  18,  19.     %2  Tim2.  12. 
XIII.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  33  Why  is  Christ  called  the  only  begotten  Son  of 
God,  since  we  are  also  the  children  of  God  ? 

A.  Because  Christ  alone  is  the  eternal  and  natural  Son 
of  *  God  ;  but  we  are  children  f  adopted  of  God,  by  grace, 
for  his  sake. 

*  John  1.  1.    Heb  1.  2.   t  Rem  8.  15,  16,  17,  Efih  1.  5,6. 


10  OF  GOD  THE  SON. 

Q.  34.  Wherefore  callest  thou  him  our  Lord  ? 

A.  Because  he  hath  redeemed  us,  both  soul  and  body, 
from  all  our  sins,  not  with  gold  or  silver  *  but  with  his 
precious  blood,  and  hath  delivered  us  from  all  the  power 
of  the  devil ;  and  thus  hath  made  us  his  own  property. 

*  1  Pet  1.  18,  19.        1  Cor  6.  20. 

XIV.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  35.  What  is  the  meaning  of  these  words—"  He  was 
conceived  of  the  holy  Ghost,  bom  of  the  Virgin  Mary  \" 

A.  That  God's  eternal  Son,  who  *  is,  and  continueth 
true  and  eternal  t  God,  \  took  upon  him  the  very  nature  of 
man,  of  the  flesh  and  §  blood  of  the  Virgin  Mary,  by  the 
operation  of  the  Holy  Ghost ;  ||  that  he  might  also,  be  the 
true  seed  of  David,  1  like  unto  his  brethren  in  all  things,** 
sin  excepted. 

*  John  1.  1.  Col  1.  15.    Psa  2.  7.  f  Rom  9.  5.   1  John  5.  20 
\  John  1.14.     Gal  4.  4.      §  Matt  1.18.  Luke  1.  35. 
i|  Psa  132.  11.  Acts  2.  30.   Rom  1.  S.  1  Phil  2.  7. 
**  Heb  4.  15. 

Q.  36.  What  profit  dost  thou  receive  by  Christ's 
conception  and  nativity  ? 

A.  That  he  is  our  *  mediator ;  and  with  his  innocence 
and  perfect  holiness,  covers  in  the  sight  off  God,  my  sins, 
wherein  I  was  conceived  and  brought  forth  ! 
•Heb  2.  16,  17.       f  Ps  32.  1.1.     Cor  1.  30.  Rom  8.  34. 

XV.  LORD'S  DAY, 

Q.  37.  What  dost  thou  understand  by  the  words  "  He 
suffered  ?" 

A.  That  he,  all  the  time  that  he  lived  on  earth,  but  es-  j 
pecially  at  the  end  of  his  life,  *  sustained  in  body  and  soul, 
the  wrath  of  God  against  the  sins  of  all  mankind,  that  so 
by  his  passion,  as  the  only  t  propitiatory  sacrifice,  he 
might  redeem  our  body  and  soul  from  everlasting  dam- 
nation, and  obtain  for  us  the  favour  of  God,  righteousness 
and  eternal  life. 

*  Pet  2.  24.      Isa  53.  12.     t  1  John  2.  2.    Rom  3.  25. 

Q.  38.  Why  did  he  suffer  under  Pontius  Pilate,  as  his 
judge  ? 


OF  GOD  THE  SON.  11 

A.  That  he,  being  innocent,  and  yet  condemned  *  by  a 
temporal  judge,  might  thereby  free  us  from  the   severe 
judgment  of  God  to  which  we  were  exposed,  t 
*  Luke  23.  14      John.  19.  4      Psa  69.  5  t  Gal  3.13 

Q  39.  Is  there  any  thing  more  in  his  being  crucified,, 
than  if  he  had  died  some  other  death  ? 

A  Yes  [there  is]  ;  for  thereby  I  am  assured,  that  he 
took  on  him  the  curse  which  iay  upon  me  ;  for  the  death 
of  the  cross  was  *  accurst  of  God. 

*  Dcut  21.  23     Gal  2.  13 

XV.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  40  Why  was  it  necessary  for  Christ  to  humble  him- 
self even  unto  death  ? 

A  Because  with  respect  to  the  justice  and  truth  of  God, 
satisfaction  for  our  sins  could  be  made  *  no  otherwise  than 
by  the  death  of  the  Son  f  of  God, 

*  Gen  2.  17     t  Heb  2.  9  10     Phil  2,  8 
Q  41   Why  was  he  'also  "buried  I" 

A  Thereby  to  prove  that  he  *  was  really  dead. 

*  John  5.  24     Phil  I;  23 

Q  42  Since  then  Christ  died  for  us,  why  must  we  also 
die? 

A  Our  death  is  not  a  satisfaction  for  our  sins,  but  only 
an  abolishing  of  sin,  and  a  passage  into  *  eternal  life. 

John  5.24     Phil  1.  23 

Q  43  What  further  benefit  do  we  receive  from  the 
sacrifice  and  death  of  Christ  on  the  cross  ? 

A  That  by  virtue  thereof,  our  old  man  is  crucified, 
dead,  and  *  buried  with  him  ;  that  so  the  corrupt  inclina- 
tions of  the  flesh  may  no  more  f  reign  in  us  ;  but  that  we 
may  \  offer  ourselves  unto  him  a  sacrifice  of  thanksgiving. 

*  Rom  6.  6,  7,  &c     f  Rom  6.  12     J  Rom  12.  1 

Q  44  Why  is  there  added  "  he  descended  into  hell  ?" 
A  That  in  my  greatest  temptations,  I  may  be  assured, 
and  wholly  comfort  myself  in  this,  that  my  Lord  Jesus 
Christ  by  his  inexpressible  anguish,  pains,  terrors,  and 
hellish  agonies,  in  which  he  was  plunged  during  all  his 
sufferings,  but  especially  on  the  cross,  hath  *  delivered 
me  from  the  anguish  and  torments  of  hell, 

*  lsa53.  10     Mat  27.  46 


*2  OF  GOD  THE  SON. 

XVII.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  45  What  doth  the  Resurrection  of  Christ  profit  us? 

A  First ;  by  his  resurrection  he  hath  overcome  death, 
that  he  might*  make  us  partakers  of  that  righteousness 
which  he  hud  purchased  for  us  by  his  death ;  secondly, 
we  i«re  also  by  his  power,  t  raised  up  to  a  new  life,  and 
lastly,  the  resurrection  of  Christ  is  a  \  sure  pledge  of  our 
blessed  resurrection 

*  1  Co?-  15.  16     f  Rom  6.  4     Col  3.  1,  cs*c. 
\  1  Cor  15      Rom  8.  11 

XVIII.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  46  How  dost  thou  understand  those  words,  "  he  as- 
cended into  heaven  ?" 

A  That  Christ,  in  sight  of  his  disciples,  was  *  taken 
up  from  earth  into  heaven,  and  that  he  continues  t  there 
for  our  interest,  until  he  come  again  to  judge  the  quick 
and  the  dead. 

*  Acts  1.  9     Mark  16.  19     f  Hcb  4.  14  Rom  8.  34 
Eflh  4.  10 

Q  47  Is  not  Christ  then  with  us  even  to  the  end  of  the 
world,  as  he  h^tb  promised  ? 

A  Ciirist  is  very  man  and  very  God  :  with  respect  to 
his  *  human  nature,  he  is  no  more  on  earth  ;  but  with  re- 
spect to  his  t  Godhead,  majesty,  grace  and  spirit,  he  is 
at  no  time  absent  from  us. 

*  Acts  3.  21     John  3.  13  John  16.  28  Mat  28.  20 

Q  48  But  if  his  human  nature  is  not  present,  wher 
ever  his  Godhead  is,  are  not  then  these  two  natures 
Christ  separated  from  one  another  ? 

A  Not  at  all  ;  for  since  the  Godhead  is  incomprehensi 
ble  and  *  omnipresent ;  it  must  necessarily  follow  that  f 
the  same  is  not  limited  with  the  human  nature  he  assum- 
ed, and  yet  remains  personally  united  to  it. 

*  Acts  7.  49     Mat  24.  30 

f  Mat  28.  20    John  16.  28,  and  17.  1 1   John  3.  13 
Q  49  Of  what  advantage  to  us  is  Christ's  ascension  int* 
heaven  ? 

A  First,  that  he  is  our  *  advocate  in  the  presence  of  his 
Father  in  heaven  :  secondly,  that  we  have  our  flesh  in  hea- 
ven us  a  sure  pledge,  that  he  as  the  head  will  also  t  take  up 
*  Heb  9.24   \  John  2.2  7?om8.34  t  John  14.2    E/ih2.6 


: 


OF  GOD  THE  HOLY  GHOST.  13 

lo  himself,  us  his  membcis  :  thirdly,  that  he  \  sends  us 
his  spirit  as  an  earnest,   by  whose  power  we   "  seek  the 
things  which  are  above,  where  Christ  sitteth  on  the  right 
hand  of  God,  §  and  not  things  on  earth." 
\  John  14.  16  2  Cor  1.  22   2  Cor  5.  5     §  Col  3. 1    Phil  3.  20 

XIX.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  50  Why  is  it  added,  "  and  sittest  at  the  right  hand 
of  God?" 

A  Bemuse  Christ  is  ascended  into  heaven  for  this  end, 
that  he  might  there  *  appear  as  head  of  his  church,  by 
whom  the  Father  f  governs  all  things. 

*  Efik  1.  20    Col  1.  18      f  Matt  28.  18  John  5.  22 

Q  5 1  What  profit  is  this  glory  of  Christ  our  head, 
unto  us  ? 

A  First,  that  by  his  holy  spirit  he  *  poureth  out  hea- 
venly graces  upon  us  his  members  :  and  then  that  by  his 
power  he  defends  f  and  preserves  us  against  ah  enemies. 
*  Eph  4.  10      f  ?s  2.  9   John  10.  2  3 

Q  52  What  comfort  is  it  to  thee  that  u  Christ  shell 
come  again  to  judge  the  quick  and  the  dead  V 

A  That  in  all  n  y  sorrows  and  persecutions,  with  up- 
lifted head*  I  look  ior  the  very  same  person,  who  before 
offered  himself  for  rny  sake,  to  the  tribunal  of  God,  and 
hath  removed  all  curse  from  me,  to  come  us  judge  from 
heaven  :  who  sh;<!i  est  ail  hist  and  my  enemies  into  ever- 
lasting condemnation,  but  shall  translate  \  me  with  all  his 
chosen  ones  to  himself,  into  heavenly  joys  and  glery. 

'   *  J,uke  21.  28     Rom  8.  23    24     i  Tke's  4.  16 
t  2  Thes  1.6   7     Matt  25.  41      \  Matt  25.  34 

OF  GOD  THE  HOLY  GHOST. 

XX.  LORDS  DAY. 

Q  53  What  dost  thou  believe  concerning  the  Hoiy 
Ghost  I 

A  First,  that  he  is  true  f.r.d  co-cterna!  God  with  the  Fa- 
ther and  the  *  Son  :  Secondly,  that  he  is  also  given  f  me, 
to  \  make    me  by  a  true  faitn,    p..rL.ker  of  Cinist    and 

*  Gen  1.  2     ha  48.  16      1  Cor  3    16  ' 

t  Matt  28.  19     2  Cor  1.21      J  Gal  3.  14     \P?e  1,  2 
B 


*3  OF  GOD  THE  SON. 

XVII.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  45  What  doth  the  Resurrection  of  Christ  profit  us? 

A  First ;  by  his  resurrection  he  hath  overcome  death, 
that  he  might*  make  us  partakers  of  that  righteousness 
which  he  hud  purchased  for  us  by  his  death ;  secondly, 
we  ure  also  by  his  power,  f  raised  up  to  a  new  life,  and 
lastly,  the  resurrection  of  Christ  is  a  j  sure  pledge  of  our 
blessed  resurrection 

*  1  Cor  15.  16      f  7?o»2  6.  4      Cot>$.  I, J&C. 
J  1  Cor  15      Rom  8.  11 

XVIII.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  46  How  dost  thou  understand  those  words,  "  he  as- 
cended into  heaven  V9 

A  That  Christ,  in  sight  of  his  disciples,  was  *  taken 
up  from  earth  into  heaven,  and  that  he  continues  f  there 
for  our  interest,  until  he  come  again  to  judge  the  quick 
and  the  dead. 

*  Acts  1.  9     Mark  16.  19     \  Heb  4.  14  Rom  8.  34 
Efih  4.  10 

Q  47  Is  not  Christ  then  with  us  even  to  the  end  of  the 
world,  as  he  hath  promised  ? 

A  Christ  is  very  man  and  very  God  :  with  respect  to 
his  *  human  nature,  he  is  no  more  on  earth  ;  but  with  re- 
spect to  his  t  Godhead,  majesty,  grace  and  spirit,  he  is 
at  no  time  absent  from  us. 

*  Jets  3.  21     John  3.  13  John  16.  28  Mat  28.  20 

Q  48  But  if  his  human  nature  is  not  present,  wher- 
ever his  Godhead  is,  are  not  then  these  two  natures  in 
Christ  separated  from  one  another  ? 

A  Not  at  all  ;  for  since  the  Godhead  is  incomprehensi- 
ble and  *  omnipresent ;  it  must  necessarily  follow  that  f 
the  same  is  not  limited  with  the  human  nature  he  assum- 
ed, and  yet  remains  personally  united  to  it. 

*  Jets  7.  49     Mat  24.  30 

f  Mat  28.  20    John  16.  28,  and  17.  1 1   John  3.  13 
Q  49  Of  what  advantage  to  us  is  Christ's  ascension  int* 
heaven  ? 

A  First,  that  he  is  our  *  advocate  in  the  presence  of  his 
Father  in  heaven  :  secondly,  that  we  have  our  flesh  in  hea- 
ven as  a  sure  pledge,  that  he  as  the  head  will  also  t  take  up 
*Heb9.  24   \  John  2.2  Rom  8.  34  f  John  14.2    Eflh2.6 


OF  GOD  THE  HOLY  GHOST.  13 

to  himself,  us  his  membcis  :  thirdly,  that  he  \  sends  us 
his  spirit  as  an  earnest,   by  whose  power  we   "  seek  the 
things  which  are  above,  where  Christ  sitteth  on  the  right 
hand  of  God,  §  and  not  things  on  earth." 
\  John  14.  16  2  Cor  1.  22  2  Cor  5.  5    §  Col  3. 1    Phil  3.  20 

XIX.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  50  Why  is  it  added,  "  and  sittcst  at  the  right  hand 
of  God?" 

A  Because  Christ  is  ascended  into  heaven  for  this  end, 
that  he  might  there  *  appear  as  head  of  his  church,  by 
whom  the  Father  f  governs  all  things. 

*  Efih  1.  20    Col  1.  18      f  Matt  28.  18  John  5.  22 

Q  5 1  What  profit  is  this  glory  of  Christ  our  head, 
unto  us  ? 

A  First,  that  by  his  holy  spirit  he  *  poureth  out  hea- 
venly graces  upon  us  his  members  :  and  then  that  by  his 
power  he  defends  f  and  preserves  us  against  all  enemies. 
*  Efih  4.  10     f  Ps  2.  9   John  10.  28 

Q  52  What  comfort  is  it  to  thee  that  "  Christ  shall 
come  again  to  judge  the  quick  and  the  dead  ?" 

A  That  in  all  ir.y  sorrow  s  and  persecutions,  with  up- 
lifted head*  I  look  tor  the  very  same  person,  who  before 
offered  himself  for  my  sake,  to  the  tribunal  of  God,  and 
hath  removed  all  curse:  from  me,  to  come  us  judge  from 
heaven  :  who  shall  cast  all  hist  an<$  my  enemies  n.io  ever- 
lasting condemnation,  but  shall  translate  j  mc  with  all  his 
chosen  ones  to  ifhhself,  into  heavenly  joys  and  glory. 

*  Luke  21.  28     Rom  8.  23   24     1  Thee  4.  16 

t  2  Thes  1.6   7     Matt  25.  41      \  Matt  25.  34 

OF  GOD  THE  HOLY  GHOST. 

XX.  LORDS  DAY. 

Q  53  What  dost  taeu  biikve  concerning  the  Holy 
Ghost  I 

A  First,  that  he  is  true  ,r.d  cc-cterna!  God  with  the  Fa- 
ther and  ti«c  *  Son  :  S>  corklfy,  that  he  ;s  also  given  f  me. 
to' {make    me  by  a  tru--  iY.ii.:,    parbjter  of  Cniist    and 

*  Gen  1.  2     laa  48.  16     1  Cor  3.  16 

t  Matt  28.  19     2  Cor  1.21      \  Gal  3.  14     1  Pet  I.  2 
B 


~16  OF  THE  SACRAMENTS. 

before  t  God  ;  and  that  I  cannot  receive  \  and  apply    the 
same  to  myself  any  other  way  than  ty  faith  only. 

+  1  Cor  1.  30      1  Cor  2.  2     }  1  John  5.  10 

XXIV.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  62  But  why  cannot  our  good  works  be  the  whole,  or 
part  of  our  righteousness  before  God  ? 

A  Because,  that  the  righteousness,  which  can  be  ap- 
proved of  before  the  tribunal  of  God,  must  be  absolutely 
perfect,  and  in  a:l  respects  *  conformable  to  the  divine 
law  :  and  also,  that  our  best  works  in  this  life,  are  all  im- 
perfect and  t  defiled  with  sin. 

*  Gal  3.  10     Dent  27.26  t  Isa  64.  6 

Q  63  What  1  do  not  our  good  works  merit,  which  yet 
God  will  reward  in  this  and  in  a  future  life  ? 
A  This  reward  is  not  of  merit,  but  of  grace.* 

*  Luke  17.  10 

Q  64.  But  doth  not  this  doctrine  make  men  careless 
and  profane  ? 

A  By  no  means  :  for  it  is  impossible  that  those  who  are 
implanted  into  Christ  by  a  true  faith,  should  not  bring 
forth  fruits  of  *  thankfulness. 

*  Mat  7.  18'    John  15.  5 

OF  THE  SACRAMENTS. 

XXV.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  65  Since  then  we  are  made  partakers  of  Christ  and  all 
his  benefits  by  faith  only,  whence  doth  this  faith  proceed  ? 

A  From  the  Holy  Ghost,  who  works  *  faith  in  our 
hearts  by  the  preaching  of  the  gospel,  and  t  confirms  it 
by  the  use  of  the  sacraments. 

•  Efih  2.8^6.  23  Philip.  1.  29   f  Mat  28.  19   Rom  4.  1 1 

Q  66  What  are  the  sacraments  ? 

A  The  sacraments  are  holy  visible  signs  and  seals,  ap- 
pointed of  God  for  this  end,  that  by  the  use  thereof,  he 
may  the  more  fully  declare  and  seal  to  us  the  promise  of 
the  gospel ;  viz.  that  he  grants  us  freely  the  remission  of 
sin,  and  *  life  eternal,  for  the  sake  of  that  one  sacrifice  of 
Christ,  accomplished  on  the  cross. 

*  Gen  17.  1 1      Rom  4.  1 1      Deut  30.  6     Levit  6.  25 
Acts  M.  16     Acts  2.  38     Mat  26.  28 


OF  HOLY  BAPTISM.  17 

Q  67  Jve  both  word  and  sacraments*  then,  ordained  and 
appointed  for  this  end,  that  they  may  direct  our  faith  to 
the  sacrifice  of  Jesus  Christ  on  the  cross,  as  the  only 
ground  of  our  salvation  ? 

A  Yes,  indeed  ;  for  the  Holy  Ghost  teaches  us  in  the 
gospel,  and  assures  us  by  the  sacraments,*  that  the  whole 
of  our  salvation  depends  upon  that  one  sacrifice  of  Christ 
which  he  offered  for  us  on  the  cross. 

•Rom  6.  3      Gal  3.  27 

Q  68  How  many  sacraments  has  Christ  instituted  in 
the  new  covenant,  or  testament  ? 

A  *Two,  namely  holy  baptism,  and  the  holy  supper. 

*  1  Cor  10.  2,  3,  4 

OF  HOLY  BAPTISM. 

XXVI.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  69  How  art  thou  admonished  and  assured  by  holy 
baptism,  that  the  one  sacrifice  of  Christ  upon  the  cross  is 
of  real  advantage  to  thee  ? 

A  Thus,  that  Christ  appointed  *  this  external  washing 
with  water,  adding  thereto  this  f  promise,  that  I  am  as 
certainly  washed  by  his  blood  and  spirit  from  all  the  pollu- 
tion of  my  soul,  that  is  from  all  my  sins,  as  I  am  *  washed 
externally  with  water,  by  which  the  filthiness  of  the  body 
is  commonly  washed  away. 

*  Mat  28.  19      Acts  2.  38     f  Mark  16.  16     Mat  3.  1 1 
Rom  6.  3      \  Mark  1.  4     Luke  3.  3 

Q  70  What  is  it  to  be  washed  with  the  blood  and  spirit 
of  Christ  ? 

A  It  is  to  receive  of  God  the  remission  of  sins,  freely, 
for  the  sake  of  Christ's  blood,  which  he  *  shed  for  us  by 
his  sacrifice  upon  the  cross  :  and  also  to  be  renewed  by 
the  Holy  Ghost,  and  sanctified  to  be  members  of  Christ'; 
that  so  we  may  more  and  more  die  unto  sin,  and  t  lead 
■holy  and  unblameable  lives. 

*  Heb  \2.  24      I  Pet  I.  2     Afio  1.  5 
|  John  1.  33      Horn  6.  4      Col  2.  12 

Q  7i  Where  has  Christ  promised  us,  that  he  will  as  cer- 
tainly Wcsh  us  by  his  bleed  and  spirit,  as  we  are  washed 
with  the  water  of  baptism  ? 

A  In  the  institution  of  baptism,  which  is  thus  express* 
B  2 


ts  OF  HOLY  BAPTISM. 

ed,  «  *  go  ye  therefore,  and  teach  all  nations,  baptizing 
them  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the 
Holy  Ghostf,"  "  he  that  believeth  and  is  baptized,  shall  be 
saved;  but  he  that  believeth  not,  shall  be  damned."  This 
promise  is  also  repeated,  whe;  e  the  scripture  callsbaptism 
"  the  \  washing  of  regeneration,  and  the  washing  §  away  of 
sins.'* 

*  Mat  28.  19     \Mark\6.  16     \  Tit  2.  5    §  Jets  2%.  16 

XXVII.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  72  Is  then  the  external  baptism  with  water,  the 
washing  away  of  sin  itself  ? 

A  Not  at  all ;  for  the  *  blood  of  Jesus  Christ  only,  and 
the  Holy  Ghost,  cleanse  us  from  all  t  sin. 

*  Mat  3.11      1  Pet  3.  2 1       t  1  John  1.7      1  Cor  6.  1 1 
Q  73  Why  then  doth  the  Holy  Ghost  call  baptism  "the 

washing  of  regeneration,"  and  "the  washing  away  of  sins?" 
A  God  speaks  thus  not  without  great  cause,  to  wit,not  on- 
ly thereby  to  teach  us,  that  as  the  filth  of  the  body  is  purged 
away  by  water,  so  our  sins  are  *  removed  by  the  blood  and 
spirit  of  Jesus  Christ ;  but  especially,  that  byt  his  divine 
pledge  and  sign  he  may  assure  us,  that  we  are  spiritually 
cleansed  from  our  sins  as  really,  as  we  are  externally 
washed  with  water. 

*Rev\.$     1  Cor  6.  11      t  Mark  16.  16     Gal  3.  27 

Q  74  Ave  infants  also  to  be  baptized  ? 

A  Yes,  for  since  they,  as  well  as  the  adult,  are  included 
in  the  *  covenant  and  f  church  of  God  ;  and  since  J  re- 
demption from  sin  by  the  blood  of  Christ,  and  the  §  Holy 
Ghost,  the  author  of  faith,  is  promised  to  them  no  less 
than  to  the  adult ;  they  must  therefore  by  baptism,  as  a 
sign  of  the  covenant,  be  also  admitted  into  the  christian 
church  ;  and  be  distinguished  [|  from  the  children  of  infi- 
dels, as  was  done  in  the  old  covenant  or  testament  by  % 
circumcision,  instead  of  which,  **  baptism  is  instituted  in 
the  new  covenant. 

*  Gen  17.  7     Acts  2.  39     f  1  Cor  7.  14     Joel  2.  16 
%Mat  19.  14     §Luke  1.  14  15     Ps  22.  10     Acts  2.  39 
\\  Acts  10.4,7      1  Cor  12.  13  and  7.  14 
f  Gen  17.  14     **  Col  2.  11,  12,  13 


OF  THE  LORD'S  SUPPER.  19 

OF  THE  HOLY  SUPPER  OF  OUR 
LORD  JESUS  CHRIST. 

XXVIII.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  75  How  art  thou  admonished  and  assured  in  the 
Lord's  Supper,  that  thou  art  a  partaker  of  that  one  sacri- 
fice of  Christ,  accomplished  on  the  cross,  and  of  all  his 
benefits  ? 

A  Thus,  That  Christ  has  commanded  me  and  all  be- 
lievers, to  eat  of  this  broken  bread,  and  to  drink  of  this  cup, 
in  remembrance  of  him;*  adding  these  promises  :  first, 
that  his  body  was  offered  and  broken  on  the  cross  for  me, 
and  his  blood  shed  for  me,  as  certainly  as  I  see  with  my 
eyes,  the  bread  of  the  Lord  broken  for  me,  and  the  cup 
communicated  to  me  :  and  further,  that  he  feeds  and  nou- 
rishes my  soul  to  everlasting  life,  with  his  crucified  body 
and  shed  blood,  as  assuredly  as  I  receive  from  the  hands 
of  the  minister,  and  taste  with  my  mouth  the  bread  and 
cup  of  the  Lord,  as  certain  signs  of  the  body  and  blood  of 
Christ. 

*  Mat  26.  26,  27,  28  Mark  1 4.  22,  23, 24  Luke  22.  19,  20 

1  Cor  10.  16,  17  and  ii.  23,  24,  25 

Q  76  What  is  it  then  to  eat  the  crucified  body,  and 
drink  the  shed  blood  of  Christ  ? 

A  It  is  not  only  to  embrace  with  a  believing  heart  all 
the  sufferings  and  death  of  Christ,  aLd  thereby  to  *  ob- 
tain the  pardon  of  sin,  and  life  eternal ;  but  also,  besides 
that,  to  become  more  and  more  t  united  to  his  sacred  bo- 
dy by  the  Holy  Ghost,  who  dwells  both  in  Christ  and  in  us; 
so  that  we,  though  Christ  is  in  heaven  and  we  on  earth, 
are  notwithstanding  "  Flesh  of  his  flesh,  and  bone  of  §  his 
bone  ;"  and  that  we  live  ||  and  are  governed  for  ever  by  one 
spirit,  as  members  of  the  same  body  are  by  one  soul. 

*  John  6.  35,40,  47,  48,  50,  51,  53,  54      f  John  6.  55,56 
\  Ac's  3.  21  and  1.  9,  10,  11      1  Cor  11,  26 

§Efih  5.  29,  30,  31,  32      1  Cor  6.  i5,  i7,  i9     i  John  3.  24 
||  John  6.  56,  57,  58      Efih  4.  15,  16 

Q  77  Where  has  Christ  promised  that  he  will  as  cer- 
tainly feed  and  nourish  believers  with  his  body  and  blood, 
as  they  eat  of  this  broken  bread,  and  drink  of  tHs  cup  ? 

A  In  the  institution  of  the  supper,  which  is  thus  ex- 


20  OF  THE  LORD'S  SUPPER. 

pressed  ;*  "  The  Lord  Jesus  in  the  same  night  in  which 
"  he  was  betrayed,  took  bread,  and  when  he  had  given 
"  thanks,  he  brake  it,  and  said,  eat;  this  is  my  body,  which 
"is  broken  for  you  ;  this  do  in  remembrance  of  me  :  after 
•<  the  same  manner  he  also  took  the  cup,  when  he  had 
"  supped,  saying,  this  t  cup  is  the  new  testament  in  my 
"  blood  :\  this  do  ye  as  often  as  ye  drink  it,  in  remenv 
w  brance  of  me.  For  as  often  as  ye  eat  this  bread,  and 
"  drink  this  cup,  ye  do  shew  the  Lord's  death  till  he  come. 
This  promise  is  repeated  by  the  holy  apostle  Paul, 
where  he  says.§  u  The  cup  of  blessing  which  we  bless,  is 
"  it  not  the  communion  of  the  blood  of  Christ  ?  The 
"  bread  which  we  break,  is  it  not  the  communion  of  the 
"  body  of  Christ  ?  for  we  being  many,  are  one  bread  and 
"  one  body  ;  because  we  are  all  partakers  of  that  one 
«  bread." 

*  1  Cor  1 1.  23  Mat  26.  26  Mark  14.  22  Luke  22.  19 
t  F.xod  24.  8  Hcb  9.  20  \  Exod  13.  9  1  Cor  1 1.  26 
§  1  Cor  10.  16,  17 


XXIX.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  78  Do  then  the  bread  and  wine  become  the  very 
body  and  blood  of  Christ  ? 

A  Not  at  all :  *  but  as  the  water  in  baptism  is  not  chang- 
ed into  the  blood  of  Christ,  neither  is  the  washing  away 
of  sin  itself,  being  only  the  sign  and  confirmation  thereof 
appointed  of  God  ;  so  the  bread  in  the  Lord's  supper  is 
not  changed  into  the  very  f  body  of  Christ ;  though 
agreeable  to  the  %  nature  and  properties  of  sacraments* 
it  is  called  the  body  of  Christ  Jesus. 

*  1  Cor  10.  1,  2,  3,  4.       1  Pet  3.  21       John  6.  35,  62,  63 
t  1  Cor.  10.    16,  tfc.  and  11.   20,  &c. 
i  Gen  17.  10,  11,  14.     J'xod  12.  26,  27,  43,  48.    Acts  7.  8 

Mat  26.  26     Mark  14.  24 

Q  79  Why  then  doth  Christ  call  the  bread  his  body, 
and  the  cup  his  blood,  or  the  new  covenant  in  his  blood  ; 
and  Paul  the  "  Communion  of  the  body  and  blood  of 
«  Christ  ?" 

A  Christ  speaks  thus,  not  without  great  reasor*  tame- 
ly, not  only  thereby  to  teach  us,  that  as  bread  and  wine 
support  this  temporal  life,  so  his  crucified  body  and  shed 


OF  THE  LORD'S  SUPPER.  21 

blood,  arc  the  true  meat  and  drink  whereby  our  souls  are  * 
fed  to  eternal  life  ;  but  more  especially  by  these  visible 
signs  and  pledges  to  assure  us,  that  we  are  as  really  par- 
takers of  his  true  body  and  blood  (by  the  operation  oi  the 
Hoiy  Ghost)  as  we  f  receive  by  the  mouths  of  our  bodies 
these  hoiy  signs  in  remembrance  of  him  ;  and  that  all  his 
sufferings  \  and  obedience,  are  as  certainly  ours,  as  if  we 
had  in  our  own  persons  suffered  and  made  satisfaction  for 
our  sins  to  God. 

*  John  6.  51,  55,  56 

1 1  Cor  10.  16,  17  and  11.  26,  27,  28     Efih  5.  32 

\  Rom  5.  9,  18,  19   and  8.  4 

XXX.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  80  What  difference  is  there  between  the  Lord's  sup- 
per und  the  Popish  mass  ? 

A  The  Lord's  supper  testifies  to  us,  that  we  have  a  full 
pardon  of  all  sin  *  by  the  only  sacrifice  of  Jesus  Christ, 
which  he  himself  has  once  accomplished  on  the  cross;  and, 
that  we  by  the  Holy  Ghost  are  ingrafted  f  into  Christ, 
who,  according  to  his  human  nature  is  now  not  on  earth, 
but  in  \  heaven,  at  the  right  hand  of  God  his  Father,  and 
will  there  §  be  worshipped  by  us  :— -but  the  mass  teacheth 
that  the  living  and  dead  have  not  the  pardon  of  sins 
through  the  sufferings  of  Christ,  unless  Christ  is  also 
daily  offered  for  them  by  the  priests ;  and  further,  that 
Christ  is  bodily  under  the  form  of  bread  and  wine,  and 
therefore  is  to  be  |]  worshipped  in  them  ;  so  that  the  mass 
at  bottom,  is  nothing  else  than  a  IT  denial  of  the  one  sacri- 
fice and  sufferings  of  Jesus  Christ,  and  an  accursed  idol- 
atry. 

*  Hcb  7.27  and  9.  12,26.    Mat  26,  28.    Luke  22.  19,20 

2  Cor  5.  21 
t  1  Cor  6.  17  and  12.  13     \  Hcb  1.  3  and  8.  1,  &c. 
§  John  4.  21,  22,  23      Col  3.  1.      Philifi  3.  20      Luke  24. 

52,  53      Acts  7.  55 
|j  In  canone  Missce  and  de  consecra.  distinct.  2  Condi. 

Trid.  Sess  13.  15 
•J  Isa  1.  11,  14.     Mat  15.  9     Col  2.  22,  23     Jer  2.  13 

Q  8 1  For  whom  is  the  Lord's  supper  instituted  ? 

A  For  those  who  are  truly  sorrowful  *  for  their  sins^ 

*Mat5.  3,  6.     Luke  7.  37,  38  c^  15.  18,  19 


22  OF  THE  LORD'S  SUPPER. 

and  yet  trust  that  these  are  forgiven  them  for  the  sake  of 
Christ ;  and  that  their  remaining  infirmities  f  are  cover- 
ed by  -his  passion  and  death  ;  and  who  also  earnestly  $ 
desire  to  have  their  faith  more  and  more  strengthened, 
and  their  lives  more  holy  ;  but  hypocrites,  and  such  as 
turn  not  to  God  with  sincere  hearts,  eat  and  §  drink  judg- 
ment to  themselves. 

tP«103.  3       \  Ps  116.  12,  13,  14      I  Pet  2.  11,12 

$  1  Cor  10.  20,  &c.  and  11.23,c5V.  Tit  1.  16.  Ps  50.  15, 16 

Q  82  Are  they  also  to  be  admitted  to  this  supper,  who 
by  confession  and  life  declare  themselves  infidels  and  un- 
godly. 

A  No  ;  for  by  this,  the  covenant  of  God  would  be  pro- 
faned, and  his  wrath*  kindled  against  the  whole  congrega- 
tion :  therefore  it  is  the  duty  of  the  christian  church,  ac- 
cording to  the  appointment  off  Christ  and  his  apostles,  to 
exclude  such  persons,  by  the  keys  of  the  kingdom  of 
heaven,  till  they  shew  amendment  of  life. 
*  1  Cor  10.  21  and  11.  30,  31      Isa  1.  11,  13       Jer  7.  21 

Ps.  50.  16,22.     \  Mat  18.  17,  18. 

XXXI.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  S3  What  are  *  the  keys  of  the  kingdom  of  heaven  ? 

*  Mat  16.  19 

A  The  preaching  *  of  the  holy  Gospel,  and  christian 
discipline  f  or  excommunication  out  of  the  christian 
church  ;  by  these  two,  the  kingdom  of  heaven  is  opened  to 
believers,  and  shut  against  unbelievers. 

*  John  20.  23.      t  Matt  18.  15,  18. 

Q  84  How  is  the  kingdom  of  heaven  opened  and  shut 
by  the  preaching  of  the  hoiy  gospel  ? 

A  Thus  :  when  according  to  the  command  of  *  Christ, 
it  is  declared  and  publicly  testified  to  all  and  every  believer, 
that  whenever  they  f  receive  the  promise  of  the  gospel  by 
a  true  faith,  ail  their  sins  are  really  forgiven  them  of  God, 
for  the  sake  of  Christ's  merits  ;  and  on  the  contrary,  when 
it  is  declared  and  testified  to  all  unbelievers,  and  such  as 
do  not  sincerely  repent,  th^t  they  stand  exposed  to  the 
wrath  ol  God,  and  eternal  \  condemnation,  so  long  as  they 

*  Mat  2$.  19     i  John  3.  18,36      Mark  1 6.  1 6 
\  2  Thes   .1.7,  8,9 


OF  THANKFULNESS.  23 

are  §  unconverted  : — according  to  which  testimony  of  the 
gospel,  God  will  judge  them,  both  in  this,  and  the  life  to 
come. 

§  John  20.  21,  22,  23     Mat  16.  19      Rom  2.  2,  17 

Q  85  How  is  the  kingdom  of  heaven  shut  and  opened 
by  christian  discipline  ? 

A  Thus  :  when  according  *  to  the  command  of  Christ* 
those  who  under  the  name  of  christians  maintain  doc- 
trines, or  practices  f  inconsistent  therewith  ;  will  not,  af- 
ter having  been  often  brotherly  admonished,  renounce 
their  errors  and  wicked  course  of  life,  are  complained  of 
to  the  church  %  or  to  those  who  are  thereunto  §  appointed 
by  the  church  ;  and  if  they  despise  their  admonition,|j  are 
by  them  forbid  the  use  of  the  sacraments  ;  whereby  they 
are  excluded  from  the  christian  church,  and  by  God  him- 
self from  the  kingdom  of  Christ ;  and  when  they  promise 
and  shew  real  amendment,  are  again  H  received  as  mem- 
bers of  Christ  and  his  church. 

*  Mat    18.  15     f  Cor  5.  12      |  Mat  18.  15,  18 

§Rom\2.  7,  8,9    1  Cor  12.  28    127m  5.  17  2  7V*<?s3.14 

\\Mat  18.  17      1  Cor  5.3,4,5 

^2  Cor  2.  6,  7,  8,  10,  11      Luke  15.  18 

THE    THIRD    PART, 

OF  THANKFULNESS. 

XXXII.     LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  86  Since  then  we  are  delivered  from  our  misery, 
merely  of  grace,  through  Christ,  without  any  merit  of 
ours  ;  why  must  we  still  do  good  works  ? 

A  Because  that  Christ,  having  redeemed  and  deliver- 
ed us  by  his  blood,  also  renews  us  by  his  holy  spirit,  af- 
ter his  own  image  ;  that  so  we  may  testify  by  the  whole 
of  our  conduct,  our  gratitude  *  to  God  for  his  blessings^ 
and  that  he  may  be  t  praised  by  us  :  also,  that  every  one 
may  be  \  assured  in  himself  of  his  faith,  by  the  fruits 
thereof;  and  that  by  our  godly  conversation  others  may 
be  §  gained  to  Christ. 

*1  Cor  6.  19,20   Rom  6.  13  and  12.  1,  2    \  Pet  2.5,9,16 
\MatS.  16      I  Pet  2.  12     \2Petl.\0     Gal 5.  6,24 
$1^3.1,2     Mat  5.  16     Ro?n  14.  19 
Q  87  Cannot  they  then  be  saved,  who  continuing  in 


24  OF  THANKFULNESS. 

their  wicked  and  ungrateful  lives,  are  not  converted  to 
God? 

A  By  no  means  ;  for  the  holy  scripture  declares  *  that 
no  unchaste  person,  idolater,  adulterer,  thief,  covetous 
man,  drunkard,  slanderer,  robber,  or  any  such  like,  shall 
inherit  the  kingdom  of  God. 

*  1  Cor  6.  9,  10    Efih  5.  5      1  John  3.  14,  15      Gal  5.  21 

XXXIII.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  88  In  how  many  parts  doth  the  true  conversion  of 
man  consist  ? 

A  In  two  parts  ;  in*  the  mortification  of  the  old,  and  in 
the  quickening  of  the  new  man. 

*  Rom  6.  4.  5,  6     Efih  4.  22,  23      Col  3.  5      1  Cor  5.  7 
Q  89  What  is  the  mortification  of  the  old  man  ? 

A  It  is  a*  sincere  sorrow  of  heart,  that  we  have  pro- 
voked God  by  our  sins  ;  and  more  and  more  to  hate  and 
flee  from  them. 

*  i>*5l.3,  8,  17  Luke  15.  18  Rom  8.  13  Joel  I.  12,  13 
£  90  What  is  the  quickening  of  the  new  man  ? 

A  It  is  a  sincere  joy  of  heart  in  God,  through  Christ,* 
and  with  love  and  f  delight  to  live  according  to  the  will  of 
God  in  all  good  works. 

*  Rom  5.  1,  2  and  14.  17     Isa  57.  15 

t  Rom  6,  10,  1 1      1  Pet  4.  2      Gal  2.  20 

Q  9 1   But  what  are  good  works  ? 

A  Only  those  which  proceed  from  a  true  *  faith,  are 
performed  according  to  thef  luw  of  God,  and  to  his  \  glo- 
ry ;  and  not  such  as  are  §  founded  on  our  imaginations,  or 
the  institutions  of  men. 

*  Rom  14.  23   f  1  S&W  15.  22   Eph  2.  2,  10  %  1  Cor  10.  31 
§Deut  12.  32      Ezek  20.  18      Mat  15.  9 

XXXIV.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  92  What  is  the  law  of  God  ? 

A  God  spake  all  these  words,  Exod,  xx.  Deut.  v.  say- 
ing, I  am  the  Loid  thy  God,  which  hath  brought  thee  out 
of  the  land  cf  Egypt,  out  of  the  house  cf  bondage. 

I.  Com.  Thou  shalt  have  no  other  goas  before  me. 

II.  Tnou  sh_it  not  make  unto  thyself  any  gi\  ven  image, 
nor  the  likeness  of  any  thing  that  is  in  heaven  above,  or  in 


OF  THE  TEN  COMMANDMENTS. 

the  earth  be ne am,  or  in  the  water  under  the  earth.  Then 
shalt  not  bow  down  to  tLem,  nor  serve  them  ;  for  I,  thjl 
Lord  thy  God,  am  a  jealous  God,  visaing  the  iniqu 
the  fathers  upon  the  children,  unto  tne  third  and  fourth 
generation  ot  them  thr.t  hate  me,  and  shewing  mercy  unto 
thousands  of  them  that  iove  me,  and  keep  my  command- 
ments. 

III.  Thou  shaltnot  take  the  name  of  the  Lord  thy  God  in 
vain  ;  for  the  Lord  will  not  hold  iiim  guiltless  that  taketb 
iiis  name  in  vain. 

IV.  Remember  the  sabbath  day,  to  keep  it  holy;  six  day 
-shalt  thou  labour,  and  do  all  thy  work,  but  the  seventh 
day  is  the  sabbctn  of  the  Lord  thy  God  :  in  it  thou  shiit  do 
no  manner  of  work,  thou,  nor  thy  son,  nor  thy  daughter, 
thy  man  servant,  nor  thy  maid  servant,  nor  thy  cattle,  nor 
the  stranger  that  is  within  thy  gates.  For  in  six  days  trie 
Lord  made  heaven  and  earth,  the  sea,  and  all  that  in  them 
is,  .and  rested  the  seventh  day  ;  wherefore  tne  Lord  bles- 
sed the  sabbath  day,  and  hallowed  it. 

V.  Honour  thy  father  and  thy  mother,  that  thy  days  mar 
be  long  in  the  land  which  the  Lord  thy  God  givetn  thee. 

VI.  Thou  shalt  not  kill. 

VII.  Thou  shalt  not  commit  adultery. 

VIII.  Thou  shalt  not  steal. 

IX.  Thou  shalt  not  bear  false  witness  against  thy  neigh  ■ 
bour. 

X.  Thou  shalt  not  covet  thy  neighbour's  house,  t::ou 
shalt  not  covet  thy  neighbour's  wife,  nor  his  man  servant, 
nor  his  maid  servant,  nor  his  ox,  nor  his  ass,  nor  any  thing 
that  is  thy  neighbour's. 

Q  93  How  are  these  ten  commands  divided  ? 

A  Into  two  *  tables,  the  f  first  of  which  teaches  us  how 
we  must  behave  towards  God  ;  the  second,  what  duties  we 
owe  to  our  neighbour. 

*  Ex  34.  28,29     Deut  4.  13  and  10.  3,  4 

Q  94  What  doth  God  enjoin  in  the  first  command  ? 

A  That  I,  as  sincerely  as  I  desire  the  salvation  ci'  my 
own  soul,  avoid  and  flee  from  aii  idolatry,*  sorcery*  1j  s  oth- 
saying,  superstition,  \  invocation  of  s.  hits,  or  any  i 
creatures,  and  learn  §  rightly  to  know  the  only  true  God  ;  || 

*  1  Cor  6.9,  10  and  10.  7,  14 

t  Ltvit  18,21      peuf\8:K\ti,  11,12 
J  Mat  4.  10     Rev  19.  10     §  John  17.  3     ||  Jer  17.  5,  7 
C 


$6         OF  THE  TEN  COMMANDMENTS. 

trust  in  him  alone,  with  humility  %  and  patience  **  submit 
to  him,  ft  expect  all  good  things  tiom  him  only  ;  \\  love 
§§  fear,  and  |j|j  glorify  him  with  my  whole  heart:  so  that 
1  renounce  Hf  and  forsake  ail  creatures,  lather  than*** 
commit  even  the  lecst  thing  contrary  to  his  will. 

f  Hcb  10.  56       Col  1.11      Rom  5.  3,  4       Phil  2.  14 

**  1  Pet  5.  5,  6     ft  Ps  104.  27     /*a  45.  7  7a  1.  17 

||  Deut  6.  5     JWfc*  22  37 

§§  Ztew*  6.  5      Mat  10.  28     |'||  il/a£  4.  10 

«i1[  ilia/  5.  29,  30     ^s  5.  29      Mat  10.  37 

***  Mat  5.  19 

Q  95   What  is  idolatry  ? 

A.  Idolatry  is  instead  of;  or  besides  that  one  true  God, 
\\  ho  has  manifested  himself  in  his  word,  to  contrive,  or 
have  any  other  object  in  which  men  place  their  trust.* 

*  2  Chron  16.  12.    Phil  3.  19     Gal  4.  8     Eph  2.  12 

XXXV.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  96  \yhatdoth  God  require  in  the  second  command.'' 
A  That  we  in  no  wise  *  represent  God  by  images,  nor 

worship  f  him  in  any  other  way  than  he  has  commanded 

in  his  word. 

*  Dent  4.  15     Isa  40.  8     Rom  1.  23,  \$c.     Acte  17.  29 
f  1  Sam  15.  23.     Deut  13.  30 

Q  97  Are  images  then  not  at  all  to  be  made  ? 

A  God  neither  can,  nor  *  may  be  represented  by  any 
means  :  but  as  to  creatures,  though  they  may  be  repre- 
sented, yet  God  forbids  to  make,  or  have  any  resemblance 
of  them,  either  in  order  to  worship  them  f  or  to  serve 
God  by  them. 

*  Deut  4.  15    16     Isa  46.  5     Rom  1.  23 

t  Ex  23.  24  and  34.  13    14     JVu?i:b  33.  52     Deut  7.   5 

Q  98  But  m.y  hot  images  be  tolerated  in  the  churches, 
as  books  to  the  laity  ? 

A  No  ;  for  we  must  not  pretend  to  be  wiser  than  Goo1, 
who  will  have  his  people  *  taught,  not  by  dumb  images,f 
but  by  the  lively  preaching  of  his  word. 

*2Ti?nS.  16   2Pet\A9    t  Jer  10.  1,  tfc.  Hab.  2.  18  19 

XXXVI.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  99  What  is  required  in  the  third  command  ? 


OF  THE  TEN  COMMANDMENTS.  27 
A  That  we,  not  only  by  cursing  or  *  perjury  ;  but  also 
by  t  rash  swearing,  must  not  profane  or  abuse  the  name  of 
God  ;  nor  by  silence  or  connivance  be  partakers  of  these 
horrible  sins  in  others  ;  and  briefly,  that  we  use  the  holy 
name  of  \  God  no  otherwise  than  with  fear  and  reverence  ; 
so  tint  he  may  be  rightly  §  confessed  and  |j  worshipped  by 
us,  and  be  glorified  in  all  our  If  words  and  works. 

*  Lev  24.  11    and  19.  12     Mat  5.  37   Lev  5.  4 
J  Isa  45.  23   24     §  Mat  10.  52     |J  1  Tim  2.  8 

f  1  Col  3.  16    17 

Q  100  Is  then  the  profaning  of  God's  name  by  swekris^ 
anc  cursing,  so  heinous  a  sin,  that  his  wrath  is  kindled 
against  those  who  do  not  endeavour  as  much  as  in  them 
lies  to  prevent  and  forbid  such  cursing  and  swearing  ? 

A  It  undoubtedly  is,*  for  there  is  no  sin  greater,  or 
more  provoking  to  God,  than  the  profaning  of  his  name  ; 
and  therefore  he  has  commanded  this  f  sin  to  be  punished 
with  death. 

*  Lev  5.  1     f  Lev  24.  15 

XXXVII.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  101  May  we  then  swear  religiously  by  the  name  of 
God? 

A  Yes  ;  either  when  the  magistrates  demand  it  of  the 
subjects  ;  or  when  necessity  requires  us  thereby  to  con- 
firm *  fidelity  and  truth,  to  the  glory  of  God,  and  the  safe  - 
ty  of  our  neighbour;  for  such  an  oath  is  f  founded  on  God's 
word,  and  therefore  was  justly  \  used  by  the  saints,  both 
in  the  old  and  new  testament. 

*  Ex22.  11     JVeA  13.  25     f  Deut  6.  13   Heb  6.  16 

|  Gen  21.  24  Jos  9.  15  19  1  Sam  24.  22  2  Cor  1.  23 
Rom  I.  9 

Q  1 02  May  we  also  swear  by  saints  or  any  other  creature  ? 

A  No  ;  for  a  lawful  oath  is  calling  upon  God,  as  the  on- 
ly one  who  knows  the  heart,  that  he  will  bear  witness  to 
the  truth,  and  punish  me  if  I  swear  *  falsely  ;  which  honoj, 
is  f  due  to  no  creature. 

*  2  Cor  1.  23        f  Mat  5.  34  35 

XXXVIII.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  103  What  doth  God  require  in  the  fourth  command  I 


OF  THE  TEN  COMMANDMENTS. 
A  First,  that  the  ministry  of  the  gospel)  and  the  schools 
he  *.  maintained ;  and  that  I,  especially  on  the  sabl 
thai  is  on  the  day  of  rest,.}  cliiigently  frequent  §  the  church 
of  God,  to  hear  his  word,  to  use  the  Bacraments,||  publicly 
to  call  upon  the  Lord,  and  contribute  to  the  relief  oi  the  \ 
poor,  as  becomes  a  christian  :  secondly,  that  all  the  days  of 
my  life  I  cease  from  my  evil  works,  and  yield  myself  to  the 
Lord,  to  work  by  his  holy  spirit  in  me  :  and  thus  **  begin 
hi  this  life  the  eternal  sabbath. 

*  Tit  1.5  1  Tim  3.  14  15  1  Cor  9.  11  2  Tim  2.  2  and 
3.15  f  Le-v  23.  3.  {.^s  2.42  46  1  Cor  14.  19  29  31 
§  1  Cor  1 1.  33  ||  1  Tim  2.  1   If  1  Cor  16.  2  **  Jsa  66.  2S 

XXXIX.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  104  What  doth  God  require  in  the  fifth  command  ? 

A  That  I  shew  all  honour,  love,  and  fidelity,  to  my  fa- 
ther and  mother,  and  all  in  authority  over  me,  and  *  sub- 
mit myself  to  their  good  instruction  and  correction,  with 
due  obedience  ;  and  also  patiently  bear  with  their  t  weak- 
nesses and  infirmities,  since  it  pleases  \  God  to  govern  us 
by  their  hand. 

*  Efih6.  1  2,  rcfc.   Col  3.  18.20  Eph  5.  22.  Rom  ft  31 
t  Prov  23.  22 

\Efihe>.  4  6       Col  3.  19  21     Rom  13.     Mat  22.  21 

XL.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  1 05  What  doth  God  require  in  the  sixth  command  ? 

A  That  neither  in  thoughts,  nor  words,  nor  gesture s, 
much  less  in  deeds,  I  dishonor,  hate,  wound  or  *  kill  my 
neighbour,  by  myself  or  by  another  ;  but  that  I  lay  f  aside 
all  desire  of  revenge  :  also,  that  I  \  hurt  not  myself,  or 
wilfully  expose  myself  to  any  danger,  wherefore  also  the 
magistrate  §  is  armed  with  the  sword,  to  prevent  murder. 

*  Mat  S.  21  22  Prov  12.  18  Mat  26.  52  ^  Eph  A. 
25'  Rom  12.  19  Mat  5.  39  40  \  Mat  4.  5  6  7  Col  2. 
23     §  Gen  9.  6     Mat  26.  52     Rom  13.  4. 

Q  106  But  this  command  seems  only  to  speak  of  murder? 

A  In  forbidding  murder,  God  teaches  us, that  he  abhors 
the  causes  thereof;  such  as*  envy,t  hatred, \  anger,  and  de' 
sire  of  revenge;  and  that  §  he  accounts  all  these  as  murder.  r 

*  James  1.  20     Gal  5.  20     t  Rom.  1.  29     \  1  John  2,  P 

$  1  John  3.  15 


OF  THE  TEN  COMMANDMENTS.  29 

Q  107  But  is  it  enough  that  we  dont  kill  any  man  in 
the  manner  mentioned  above  ? 

A  No  ;  for  -when  God  forbids  envy,  hatred,  and  anger  ; 
he  commands  us  to  *  iove  our  neighbour  as  ourselves  ;  to 
shew  f  patience,  peace,}:  meekness,§  mercy,  and  all  kind- 
ness, towards  him,||  and  prevent  his  hurt  as  much  as  in  us 
lies  :  and  that  we  If  do  good,  even  to  our  enemies. 

*  Mat  22.  39  and  7.  12  f  Rom  12.  10.  \  Efih  4.  2 
Gal  6.  1  2  Mat  5.  5  Rom  12.  18  §  Ex  23.  5.  ||  Mat 
5.  45.     f  Rom  12.  20 

XLI.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  108  What  doth  the  seventh  command  teach  us  ? 

A  That  ail  uncleanness  is  accursed  *  of  God,  and  that 
therefore  we  must  with  all  our  hearts  f  detest  the  s 
and  live  \  chastely  and  temperately,  whether  in  §  holy  wed- 
lock, or  in  a  single  life. 

*  Lev  18.  27     t  Judg  22.  23      \  1  Thes  4.  3    4 
§  lied  13.  4     1  Cor  7.  4  9 

Q  109  Doth  God  forbid  in  this  command,  only  adulte- 
ry, and  such  like  gross  sins  ? 

A  Since  both  our  body  and  soul  are  temples  of  the 
Holy  Ghost,  he  commands  us  to  preserve  them  pure  and 
holy  ;  therefore  he  forbids  all  unchaste  actions,*  gestures, 
words,  thoughts,!  desires,  and  whatever  {  can  entice  men 
thereto. 

*  Eph  5.  3     1  Cor  6.  18     f  Mai  5.  28 
%Eflh  5.  18     1  Cor  15.33 

XLII.  LORD'S  DAY. 

QUO  What  doth  God  forbid  in  the  eighth  command  ? 

A  God  forbids  not  only  those  *  thefts  and  f  robberies 
which  are  punishable  by  the  magistrate  ;  but  he  compre- 
hends under  the  name  of  theft  all  wicked  tricks  and  devi- 
ces, whereby  we  design  to  \  appropriate  to  ourselves  the 
goods  which  belong  to  our  neighbour  ;  whether  it  be  by 
force,  or  under  the  appearance  of  right  ;  as  by  ui.jnsl  ,§ 
weights,  ells,  ||  measures,  fraudulent  merchandize,  false 

*  Cor6.  10     f  Cor.  5.  10     \Luke$.  14.     1  The*  4.   6 

%Prov\\.\      \\Ezek45.  9    10    11     Dtut  25.    13 
C  2 


OF  THE  TEN  COMMANDMENTS 

fy  %  usury,  or  by  any  other  way  forbidden  by  God  ,  u^ 
also  all  **  covetousness,  all  abuse  and  waste  of  his  gifts. 

5  Ps  15.  5    Luke  6.  35     **  1  Cor  6.  10 

Q  1 11   But  what  doth  God  require  in  this  command  ? 

A  That  I  promote  the  advantage  of  my  neighbour  in 
every  instance  I  can  or  may  ;  and  deal  with  him  as  I  *  de- 
sire to  be  dealt  with  by  others  ;  further  also  that  I  faith- 
fully i.bcur,  so  that  I  |  may  be  able  to  relieve  the  needy. 

*  Mat  7.  12     f  Prov  5.  16    Eph  4.  28 

XLIII.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  1 1 2  What  is  required  in  the  ninth  command  ? 

•/  That  I  bear  false  witness  *  against  no  man  ;  nor  fal- 
sify f  any  man's  words  :  that  I  be  no  backbiter,^  or  slan- 
derer ;  that  I  do  not  judge,  or  join  §  in  condemning  any 
man  rashly  or  unheard  ;  but  that  I  |j  avoid  all  sorts  of  lies 
and  deceit,  as  the  proper  works  %  of  the  devil,  unless  I 
would  bring  down  upon  me  the  heavy  wrath  of  God  :  like- 
wise that  in  judgment  and  all  other  dealings  I  love  the 
truth,  speak  it  uprightly**  and  confess  it :  also  that  I  de- 
fend and  promote,  ft  as  much  as  I  am  able,  the  honour  and 
good  character  of  my  neighbour. 

*  Prov  19.  5,  9  and  21.  28     fP«l5.  3     \  Rom  1.29 
§  Mi*  7.1,  &£     Luke  6.  37     Lev  19.11 

«[  Prov  12.  22  and  13.  5     **  1  Cor  13.  6      Efih  4.  25 
ft  1  Peter  4.  8 

XLIV.  LORD'S  DAY. 
Q   113  What  doth  the  tenth  commandment   require 

of  us  ? 

A  That  even  the  smallest  inclination  or  thought,  con- 
trary to  any  of  God's  commands,  never  rise  in  our  hearts; 
but  that  at  all  times  we  hate  all  sin  with  our  whole  hearts, 
'and  delight  in  all  righteousness. 

*  Rom  7.  7,  &c.  ^ 
Q   114  But  can  those  who  are  converted  to  God,  per- 
fectly keep  these  commands  ? 

y/  No  ;  but  even  the  holiest  men  while  in  this  life,  have 
only  small  beginnings  of  this  *  obedience,  yet  so,  that  with 
a  t  sincere  resolution,  they  begin  to  live,  not  only  accord- 
ing to  some,  but  all  the  commands  of  God. 

*  Rom  7«  14     f  Rem  7.  22,  15,  &c.     James  2.  20 


OF  PRAYER.  31 

Q  115  Why  will  God  then  have  the  ten  commands  so 
strictly  preached,  since  no  man  in  this  life  can  keep  them  ? 

A  First,  that  all  our  life  time,  we  may  learn*  more  and 
more  to  know  our  sinful  nature,  and  thus  become  the 
more  earnest  in  seeking  the  remission  of  sin,  t  and  righte- 
ousness in  Christ ;  likewise,  that  we  constantly  endea- 
vour and  pray  to  God  for  the  grace  of  the  holy  spirit,  that 
we  may  become  more  and  more  conformable  to  the  image 
of  God,  till  we  arrive  at  the  perfection  proposed  to  us, 
in  a  life  to  come 4 

*  \John  1.9     Ps  3.  2,  5      f  Rom  7.  24 
%  1  Cor  9.  24     Phil  3.  12,  13,  14 

OF  PRAYER. 

XLV.    LORD'S  DAY. 

Q   116  Why  is  prayer  necessary  for  christians  ? 

A  Because  it  is  that  chief  part  of  *  thankfulness  which 
God  requires  of  us  :  and  also  because  God  will  give  his 
grace  and  holy  spirit  to  those  only  who  with  sincere  de- 
sires continually  ask  them  of  him,  and  f  are  thankful  for 
them. 

*P*50.  15     \Mat7.  7,  8  Luke  11.9,  13     Mat  13.  12* 

Ps  50.  15 

Q  117  What  are  the  requisites  of  that  prayer,  which 
is  acceptable  to  God,  and  which  he  will  hear  ? 

A  First,  that  we  from  the  heart  pray  to  the  one  true 
God  only,  who  hath  *  manifested  himself  in  his  word,  for 
all  things  he  hath  commanded  us  to  ask  of  him  :  f  second- 
ly, that  we  rightly  and  thoroughly  know  our  need  and  mi- 
sery, that  so  we  may  J  deeply  humble  ourselves  in  the 
presence  of  his  divine  majesty  ;  thirdly,  that  we  may  be 
fully  persuaded  that  he,  notwithstanding  we  are§  unwor- 
thy of  it,  will,  for  the  sake  of  Christ  our  Lord,  certainlyl) 
hear  our  prayer,  as  he  has  If  promised  us  in  his  word. 

*  John  4.  22  f  Rom  8.  26  1  John  5.  14  $  John  4.  23.  24 
Ps  145.  18  §2  ChronZO.  12  ||  Ps  2.  1 1  and  34.  18,  19 
Isa  66.  2  «|f  Pom  10.  14  and  8.  15,  16  James  1.  6,  Ufc* 
John  14.  13     Dan9.  17,  18      Mat  7.  8     Ps  143.  1 

Q   118  What  hath  God  commanded  us  to  ask  of  him  ? 

A  All*  things  necessary  for  soul  and  body  ;  which 
Christ  our  Lord  has  comprised,  in  that  prayer  he  himself 
t  has  taught  us. 

*  James  1.17  Mat  6-  33  \  Mat  6.  9,  10,  &c.  Luke  1 1,  2fcftr,. 


32-  OF  PRAYER. 

Q   119  What  are  the  words  of  that  prayer  ? 

A  Our  father  which  art  in  heaven,  hallowed  be  thy  name. 
Thy  kingdom  come.  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth,  as  it  is 
in  heaven.  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread,  and  forgive 
us  our  debts,  as  we  forgive  our  debtors,  and  lead  us  not 
into  temptation  ;  but  deliver  us  from  evil.  For  thine  is 
the  kingdom,  the  power,  and  the  glory,  for  ever.  Amen. 

XLVI.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  120  Why  hath  Christ  commanded  us  to  address 
God  thus,  "  Our  Father  ?" 

A  That    immediately,    in  the  very  beginning  of  our 

prayer,  he  might  excite  in  us  a  child-like  reverence  for, 

and  confidence  in  God,  which  are  the  foundation  of  our 

prayer  ;  namely,  that  God  is  become  our  father  in  Christ, 

*and  will  much  less  deny  us  what  we  ask  of  him  in  true 

faith,  than  our  parents  f  will  refuse  us  earthly  things. 

*  Mat  6.9     f  Mat  7.9,  10,  11     Luke  11.11     Isa  49.  15 

Q    121  Why  is  it  here  added,  "  Which  art  in  heaven  ?' ' 

A  Lest  we    should  form  any*  earthly  conceptions  of 

God's  heavenly  majesty,  and  that  we  t  may  expect  from 

his  almighty  power  all  things  necessary  for  soul  and  body. 

*Jer  23.  24     Acts  17.  24     Rom  10.  12 

XLVII.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q   122  Which  is  the  first  petition  ? 

A  *  "  Hallowed  be  thy  name" ;  that  is,  grant  us  first 
rightlyt  to  know  thee,  and  toj  sanctify,  glorify  and  praise 
thee,  in  all  thy  works,  in  which  thy  power,  wisdom,  good- 
ness, justice,  mercy  and  truth,  are  clearly  displayed ;  and 
further  also,  that  we  may  so  order  and  direct  our  whole 
lives,  our  thouerhts,  words  and  actions,  as  that  thy  name 
may  never  be  blasphemed,  but  rather§  honoured  and  prais- 
ed, on  our  account. 

*  Mat  6.  9   f  John  17.  3  Jer  9.  23,  24    Mat  16.  17 

James  1.5     }  Ps  n9.  i57,  i38    Luke  I.  46    Ps  l45.  8,  9 

§Ps  u5.i,  7i,  8 

XLVIII.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  i23  Which  is  the  second  petition  ? 


OF  PRAYER.  33 

rf  u  *  Thy  kingdom  come  ;"  that  is,  rule  us  so  by  thy 
word  Laid  spirit,  that  we  mayt  submit  ourselves  more  a:  d 
more  to  thee  ;  preserve  and$  increase  thy  church,  destroy 
tliL§  works  of  the  devil,  and  all  violence  which  would  ex- 
alt itself  against  thee;  and  also,  all  wicked  counsels  de«? 
vised  against  thy  holy  word  ;  till  ths  full  ((perfection  of  thy 
kingdom  takes  place,H  wherein  thou  shalt  be  all  in  all. 

*  Mat  6.  10     f  Mat  6.  35.    Ps  119.  5     %  Ps  51.  18 
§  1  John  3.  8.    Rom  16.  20     |J  Rev.  22.  17   20 

1  1  Cor  15.  28 

XLIX.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  124  Which  is  the  third  petition  ? 

A  "  *  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth  as  it  is  in  Heaven  fV 
that  is,  grant  that  we  and  all  men  may  renounce  f  our  own 
will,  and  without  murmuring  \  obey  thy  will  which  is  only 
good  ;  that  so  every  one  may  attend  to  and  §  perform  the 
duties  of  his  station  and  calling  as  willingly  and  faithfully, 
as  the  ||  angels  do  in  heaven. 

*  Mat  6.  10     f  Mat  16.  24   Tit  2.  *2     \  Luke  22.  4-2 
§i  Cor  7.  24    Eflh4.l     ft  Ps  103.20 

L.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  125.  Which  is  the  fourth  petition  ? 

A.  "  *  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread ;"  that  is,  be 
pleased  to  provide  us  with  all  things  t  necessary  for  the 
body,  that  we  may  thereby  acknowledge  thee  to  be  the 
only  fountain  of  all  \  good,  and  that  neither  our  care  nor 
industry  nor  even  thy  gifts,  can  §  profit  us  without  thy 
blessing  and  therefore  that  we  may  withdraw  our  trust 
from  all  creatures,  and  place  J|  it  alone  in  thee, 

*  Mat  6.  1 1      t  Ps  145.  15     Mat  6.  25,  &c. 
\  Acts  17.  25  and  14.  17 

§  1  Cor  15.  58     Deut8.3     Ps  127.  1    2 
(IPs  62.  11   a?id55.  23 


LI,  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q  126  Which  is  the  fifth  petition  ? 
A  "  *  And  forgive  us  our  debts  as  we  forgive  our  debt- 
ors ;"  that  is,  be  pleased  for  the  sake  of  Christ's  blood.t 
*  Matt  6.  2     \  Ps  51.  I      1  John  2,    1    2 


34  OF  PRAYER. 

not  to  impute  to  us  poor  sinners,  our  transgressions,  nor 
that  depravity  which    always  cleaves  to   us  ;  even  as  we 
feel  this  evidence  of  thy  grace  in  us,  that  it  is  our  firm 
resolution  from  the  heart,  to  J  forgive  our  neighbour. 
\  Mat  6.  14  15 


LII.  LORD'S  DAY. 

Q   127  Which  is  the  sixth  petition  ? 

A  "  *  And  lead  us  rot  into  temptation,  but  deliver  us 
from  evil ;"  that  is,  since  we  are  so  weak  in  ourselves, 
that  we  cannot  stand  f  a  moment ;  and  besides  this,  since 
our  mortal  enemies,  the  devil,  \  the  §  world,  and  our  own|| 
flesh,  cease  not  to  assault  us  ;  do  thou  therefore  preserve 
and  strengthen  us  by  the  power  of  thy  holy  spirit,  that  we 
may  not  be  overcome  in  this  spiritual  w  rfare  ;?\  but 
constantly  and  strenuously  may  resist  our  foes,  till  at  last 
we  **  obtain  a  complete  victory. 

*  Mat  6.    13     f  John  5.   5     Ps  103.  14     \  1  Pet  5.  8 
§  Efih  6.  12     John  15.  19      ||  Rom  7.  23      Gal  5.  17 

1  Mat  26.  41  Mark  13.  33  **  1  Thts  3.  13  and  5.  23 
Q  128  How  dost  thou  conclude  thy  prayer  ? 
A  "  *  For  thine  is  the  kingdom,  the  power  and  the 
glory  for  ever  ;"  that  is,  all  these  we  ask  of  thee,  because 
thou  being  our  King  and  Almighty,  art  willing  and  able 
to  f  give  us  all  good  ;  and  all  this  we  pray  for,  that  there- 
by not  we,  but  thy  holy  name  may  \  be  glorified  for  ever. 

*  Mat  6.  13     f  Pom  10.  12.     2  Pet  2.9 
%  John  14.  13     Ps  115.  1      Phil  4.  20 

Q   129  What  doth  the  word  "  amen"  signify  ? 

A  «*  •  Amen,"  signifies,  it  shall  truly  and  certainly 
be  ;  for  my  prayer  is  more  assuredly  heard  of  God,  than 
I  feel  in  my  heart,  that  I  desire  these  things  of  him. 

*  2  Cor  1.  20.      2  Tim  2.  13. 


THE    END    OF    THE    CATECHISM. 


35 


A 

COMPENDIUM 

OF    THE 

CHRISTIAN  RELIGION, 

For  those  who  intend  to  approach  the  Holy  Supper  of 
the  Lord. 


,1.  Q.  "I    TOW  many  things  are  necessary  for  thee  to 
J   J.  know,  that  thou  enjoying  real  comfort  may- 
est  live  and  die  happily  ? 

A.  Three  :  first,  how  great  my  sins  and  miseries  are  : 
the  second,  how  I  may  be  delivered  from  all  my  sins  and 
miseries  :  the  third,  how  I  shall  express  my  gratitude  to 
God  for  such  deliverance. 


THF    FIRST    PART. 

OF  THE  MISERY  OF  MAN. 

-2.   Q.  Whence  knowe st  thou  thy  misery  ? 

A.  Out  of  the  law  of  God. 

3.   Q.  What  hath  God  commanded  thee  in  his  law  ? 

A.  That  is  contained  in  the  ten  commandments,  which 
he  hath  revealed  in  scripture,  as  follows  : 

Exodus  20.  and  Dtut.  5.  4,  5,  8cc.  I  am  the  Lord  thy 
God  which  have  brought  thee  out  of  the  land  of  Egypt* 
out  of  the  house  of  bondage. 

I.  Com.  Thou  shalt  have  no  other  Gods  before  me. 

II.  Com.  Thou  shalt  not  make  unto  thee  any  graven 
image,  or  any  likeness  of  any  thing  that  is  in  heaven  above, 
or  that  is  in  the  earth  beneath,  or  that  is  in  the  water  un- 
der the  earth,  thou  shalt  not  bow  down  thyself  to  them, 
nor  serve  them  :  for  I  the  Lord  thy  God  am  a  jealous  God, 
visiting  the  iniquity  of  the  fathers  upon  the  children  un- 
to the  third  and  fourth  generation  of  them  that  hate  me  ; 
and  shewing  mercy  unto  thousands  of  them  that  love  me, 
and  keep  my  commandments. 

III.  Com.  Thou  shalt  not  take  the  name  of  the  Lord 
thy  God  in  vain  :  for  the  Lord  will  not  hold  him  guiltless 
that  taketh  his  name  in  vain. 

IV.  Com.  Remember  the  sabbath  day,  to  keep  it  holy; 
six  days  shalt  thou  labour,  and  do  all  thy  work  ;  but  the 


4G  OF  THE  MISERY  OF  MAN. 

seventh  day  is  the  sabbath  of  the  Lord  thy  God ;  in  it 
thou  shcJt  not  do  any  work,  thou,  nor  thy  son,  nor  thy 
daughter,  thy  man  servant,  nor  thy  maid  servant,  nor 
thy  cattle,  nor  the  stranger  that  is  within  thy  gates  ; 
for  hi  six  days  the  Lord  made  heaven  and  earth, 
the  sea  and  ail  that  in  them  is,  and  rested  the  seventh  day: 
wherefore  the  Lord  blessed  the  sabbath  d^.y  and  hallowed  it. 

V.  Com.  Honour  thy  father  and  thy  mother,  that  thy 
days  may  be  iong  upon  the  land,  which  the  Lord  thy  God 
giveth  thee. 

VI.  Coin.  Thou  shalt  not  kill. 

VII.  Com.  Thou  shalt  not  commit  adultery. 

VIII.  Com.  Thou  shalt  not  steal. 

IX.  Com.  Tnou  shalt  not  bear  false  witness  against 
thy  neighbour. 

X.  Com.  Thou  shalt  not  covet  thy  neighbour's  house, 
thou  shcJtnot  eovet  thy  neighbour's  wife,  nor  his  man  ser- 
vant, nor  his  maid  servant,  nor  his  ox,  nor  his  ass,  nor 
any  thing  that  is  thy  neighbour's. 

4.  Q.  How  are  the  ten  commandments  divided  ? 
A.  Into  two  tables. 

5.  Which  is  the  sum  of  what  God  requires  of  thee,  in 
rhe  four  commandments  of  the  first  table  ? 

A.  That  I  shall  love  the  Lord  my  God,  with  all  my 
heart,  with  A\  my  soul,  with  all  my  mind,  and  with  all 
my  strength  :  this  is  the  first  and  great  commandment. 

6.  Q.  Which  is  the  sum  of  what  God  commands  thee, 
'in  the  six  commandments  of  the  second  table  ? 

A.  That  I  shall  love  my  neighbour  as  rryseif :  on  these 
two  commandments  hang  the  whole  law  and  the  prophets. 

7.  Q.  Canst  thcu  keep  all  these  things  perfectly  ? 

A.  In  no  wise  :  for  I  am  prone  by  nature  to  hate  God 
and  my  neighbour  ;  and  to  transgress  the  commandments 
of  God  in  thought,  word  and  deed. 

8.  O  Hath  God  created  thee  naturally  so  wicked  and 
pervr :  e  ?  4 

A.  By  no  means  :  but  he  created  me  good  and  after  his 
own  image,  in  the  true  knowledge  of  God,  in  righteous- 
ness .  nd  in  holiness. 

9.  Q.  Whence  then  proceeds  that  depravity  which  is 
in  thee  ? 

A.  From  the  fall  and  disobedience  of  Ad^m  and  Eve  in 
Paradise,  hence  our  nature  is  become  so  corrupt  that  we 
are  all  conceived  and  born  in  sin. 

10.  Q.  What  was  that  disobedience  ? 


A  COMPENDIUM. 

That  they  did  cut  of  the  fruit   of  the   tree,  which 
God  hud  forbidden  them. 

1 1 .  Q.  Ddes  the  disobedience  of  Adam  concern  us  I 
A.  Certainly  ;  for  he  is  the  Father  of  us  ali ;  and  we 

have  all  sinned  in  him. 

12.  Q.  .-tfre  we  then  incapable  of  doing  any  good  as  cf 
ourselves  ;  and  prone  to  all  manner  of  wickedness  ? 

A.  Indeed  we  are :  unless  we  are  regenerated  by  the 
spirit  of  God. 

13.  Q.  Will  God  suffer  such  disobedience  and  corrup- 
tion to  go  unpunished  ? 

A.  By  no  means  :  but  in  his  just  judgment  will  punish 
them,  both  in  time  and  eternity, as  it  is  written :  «  cursed  is 
every  one  that  continueth  not  in  all  things,  which  are  writ- 
ten in  the  book  of  the  law  to  do  them." 

THE  SECOND  PART. 

OF  MAN'S  DELIVERANCE  OUT  OF  HIS 
MISERY. 

14.  Q.  By  what  means  canst  thou  escape  this  punish- 
ment, and  be  again  received  into  favour  ? 

A.  By  such  a  Mediator,  who  is  in  one  person  very  God, 
and  a  real  righteous  man. 

1 5.  Q.  Who  is  that  Mediator  ? 

A.  Our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who  in  one  person  is  true 
God,  and  a  real  righteous  man. 

16.  Q.  Could  not  the  angels  be  our  mediators  ? 
A.  No  :  for  they  are  neither  God  nor  men. 

\7.  Q.  Cannot  the  saints  be  our  mediators  ? 
A.  No  :  for  they  themselves  have  sinned,  and  have  ob- 
tained salvation  by  no  other  means  than  thro' this  Mediator, 

18.  Q.  Shall  all  men  then  be  saved  by  the  Mediator 
Jesus,  as  they  are  all  condemned  in  Adam  ? 

A.  No  :  but  those  only  who  receive  him  by  a  true  faith: 
as  it  is  written,  John  3.  16,  "  for  God  so  loved  the  world, 
that  he  gave  his  only  begotten  Son,  that  whosoever  believ- 
ed in  him  should  not  perish,  but  have  everlasting  life." 

19.  Q.  What  is  true  faith  ? 

A.  It  is  a  certain  knowledge  of  God,  and  of  his  promises 
revealed  to  us  in  the  gospel,  and  an  hearty  confidence  that 
all  my  sins  are  forgiven  me,  for  Christ's  sake. 

20.  Q.  What  is  the  sum  of  that  which  God  hath  prom- 
ised in  the  gospel,  and  commanded  us  to  believe  ? 

D 


A  COMPENDIUM. 
A  Thai  is  comprehended  in  the  twelve  articles  of  the 
Catholic  Christian  Faith,  which  are  as  follows  : 

1  I  believe  in  God,  the  Father  Almighty,  maker  of  hea- 
ven and  earth. 

2  And  in  Jesus  Christ  his  only  begotten  Son,  our  Lord : 

3  Was  conceived  by  the  Holy  Ghost,  born  of  the  Vir- 
gin Mary. 

4  Suffered  under  Pontius  Pilate,  was  crucified,  dead 
and  buried,  he  descended  into  Hell. 

5  The  third  day  he  rose  again  from  the  dead. 

6  He  ascended  into  Heaven,  and  sitteth  on  the  right 
hand  of  God,  the  Father  Almighty. 

7  From  thence  he  shall  come  to  judge  the  quick  and 
*he  dead. 

S  I  believe  in  the  Holy  Ghost, 

9  I  believe  an  holy  Catholic  church,  the  communion  of 
.aints. 

10  The  forgiveness  of  sins. 

1 1  The  resurrection  of  the  body, 
i  2  And  the  life  everlasting. 

2  1  Q  When  you  profess  to  believe  in  God  the  Father, 
md  the  Son,  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  do  you  mean  three  Gods 
thereby  ? 

A  In  no  wise  :  for  there  is  but  one  only  true  God. 

22  Q.  Why  do  you  then  name  three,  the  Father,  the 
Son,  and  the  Holy  Ghost  ? 

A  Because  God  hath  so  revealed  himself  in  his  word, 
that  these  three  distinct  persons,  are  the  only  one  and 
true  God,  and  we  also  are  baptized  in  the  name  of  the  Fa- 
ther, and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost. 

23  Q  What  believest  thou  when  thou  s&yest,  "  I  believe 
in  God,  the  Father  Almighty,  maker  of  heaven  and  earth? 

A  That  the  eternal  Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
who  of  nothing  made  heaven  and  earth,  and  still  upholds 
them  by  his  providence  ;  is  my  God  and  Father,  for  Christ 
his  Son's  sake. 

24  Q  What  believest  thou  when  thou  sayest,  u  And  in 
Jesus  Christ  his  only  begotten  Son,  our  Lord  V 

A  That  Jesus  Christ  is  the  eternal  and  only  Son  of 
the  Father,  co-essential  with  God  the  Father,  and  the  Holy 
Ghost. 

25  Q  Do  you  not  believe  that  he  also  became  man? 

A  Yes:  for  he  was  conceived  by  the  Holy  Ghost,  and 
born  of  the  Virgin  Mary. 


A  COMPENDIUM. 

26  Q  Is  his  Godhead  then  changed  into  humanity 
A  No:  for  the  Godhead  is  immutable. 

27  Q  How  is  he  then  become  man  ? 

./  By  assuming  the  human  nature  into  a  personal  ui 

with  his  divine. 

2S  Q  Did  he  then  bring  his  human  nature  from  heaven 
A  No  :  but  he  took  it  on  him  of  the  Virgin  Mary,  by 

the  operation  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  and  is  thus  become  like 

unto  us  his  brethren  in  all  things,  sin  excepted,  Hcb.  2,17 

and  4.  15. 

29  Q  Why  is  he  called  Jesus,  that  is  Saviour  I 
A  Because  he  saves  his  people  from  their  sins. 

30  Q  Is  there  no  other  Saviour  ? 

A  No  :  for  there  is  none  other  name  under  heave:- 
given  among  men,  whereby  we  must  be  saved.,  than  in  the 
name  of  Jesus,  Acts  4.  12. 

3 1  Q  Wny  is  he  called  Christ,  that  is  anointed  ? 

A  Because  he  was  anointed  with  the  Holy  Ghost,  and 
ordained  by  God  the  Father,  to  be  our  chief  Prophet,  our 
only  High  Priest,  and  our  eternal  King. 

32  Q  What  then  hath  Jesus  Christ  done  to  save  us  ? 
A  He  has  suffered  for  us,  was  crucified  and  died,  was 

buried  and  descended  into  hell ;  that  is,  he. suffered  the 
torments  of  hell,  and  thus  became  obedient  to  his  Father, 
that  he  might  deliver  us  from  the  temporal  and  eternal 
punishment  due  to  sin. 

33  Q  In  which  nature  hath  he  suffered  this  ? 

A  Only  in  his  human  nature,  that  is,  in  soul  and  body. 

34  Q  What  hath  then  his  Godhead  contributed  hereto  i 
A  His  Godhead,   by  its   power,  hath   in    such   wise 

strengthened  the  assumed  human  nature,  that  it  could 
bear  the  burden  of  God's  wrath  against  sin,  and  delivei  us 
from  it. 

35  Q  Did  Christ  then  remain  under  the  power  of  death  ? 
A  No  :  but  he  rose  from  the  dead  the  third  day  for  our 

justification,  Rom.  4.  25. 

36  Q  Where  is  Christ  now,  as  to  his  human  nature  ? 
A  He  is  ascended  into  heaven,    and  sits  at  the   right 

hand  of  God  the  Father,  that  is  exalted  in  the  highest 
glory-  far  above  ali  creatures,  Eph.  1.  20,  21. 

37  Q  To  what  end  is  he  there  so  highly  exalted  ? 

A  Particularly  that  he  might  from  thence  <rovern  his 
church,  and  there  be  our  intercessor  by  the  Father.     - 

3S  Q  Is  he  not  with  us  then  even  unto  the  end  of  the 
world,  as  he  hath  promised  us.  Matt.  28.  20  ? 


40  A  COMPENDIUM. 

A  With  respect  to  his  Godhead,  majesty,  grace  and 
spirit,  he  is  never  absent  from  us  :  but  with  respect  to  his 
human  nature  he  remains  in  heaven,  until  he  shall  come 
again  to  judge  the  quick  and  the  dead. 

29  Q  What  do  you  believe  concerning  the  Holy  Ghost? 

A  That  he  is  the  true  and  co-eternal  God  with  the  Fa- 
ther and  Son  :  and  that  he  being  given  to  me  of  the  Father, 
through  Christ,  regenerates  me  and  leads  me  into  all 
truth,  comforts  me,  and  will  abide  with  me  for  ever. 

40  Q  What  believest  thou  concerning  the  Holy  Catho- 
lic church  ? 

A  That  the  Son  of  God  gathers  by  his  word  and  spirit 
out  of  the  whole  human  race,  those  who  are  chosen  to 
eternal  life,  to  be  a  church  to  himself;  of  which  I  believe 
I  am,  and  always  shall  remain  a  living  member. 

4 1  Q  Where  doth  he  gather  his  church  ? 

A  Where  God's  word  is  purely  preached,  and  the  holy 
sacraments  administered  according  to  the  institution  of 
Christ. 

42  Q  What  benefits  doth  Christ  bestow  on  his  church  ? 
A  He  grants  her  remission  of  sins,  the  resurrection  of 

the  flesh,  and  eternal  life. 

43  Q  What  doth  it  profit  thee  now  that  thou  believest 
all  this  ? 

A  That  I  am  righteous  in  Christ  before  God,  Rom.  5. 1. 

44  Q  How  art  thou  righteous  before  God  ? 
A  Only  by  a  true  faith  in  Jesus  Christ. 

45  Q  How  is  it  to  be  understood  that  thou  art  justified 
by  faith  only  ? 

A  Thus  :  that  the  perfect  satisfaction  and  righteous- 
ness of  Christ  alone,  is  imputed  to  me  of  God,  by  which 
my  sins  are  forgiven  me,  and  I  become  an  heir  of  ever- 
lasting life  ;  and  that  I  cannot  receive  that  righteousness 
by  any  other  means  than  by  faith. 

46  Q  Why  cannot  our  good  works  be  our  righteous- 
ness before  God,  or  some  part  thereof  ? 

A  Because  even  our  best  works  in  this  life,  are  imper- 
fect, and  polluted  with  sins. 

47  Q  Do  our  good  works  then  merit  nothing,  whicl 
yet  God  will  reward  in  this,  and  in  a  future  life  ? 

A  This  reward  is  not  given  out  of  merit  but  of  grace 
43  Q  Who  worketh  that  faith  in  thee  ? 
A  The  Holy  Ghost. 
49  Q  By  wiiat  me?.ns  > 


A  COMPENDIUM.  41 

A  By  the  hearing  of  the  word  preach  d,  Rom.  10. 14, 1 7 

50  Q  How  does  he  strengthen  that  faith  ? 

A  By  the  same  word  preached,  and  by  the  use  of  the 
holy  sacraments. 

5 1  Q  What  are  the  sacraments  ? 

A  They  are  holy  signs  and  seals  instituted  by  God. 
thereby  to  assure  us  that  he  of  grace  grants  us  remission 
of  sins,  and  life  eternal,  for  the  sake  of  that  one  sacrifice 
of  Christ  finished  on  the  cross, 

52  Q  How  many  sacraments  hath  Christ  instituted  in 
the  new  testament? 

A  Two  :  holy  baptism,  and  the  holy  supper. 

53  Q  Which  is  the  outward  sign  in  baptism  ? 

A  The  water  with  which  we  are  baptised  in  the  name 
of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost. 

54  Q  What  doth  that  signify  and  seal  ? 

A  The  washing  away  of  sins  by  the  blood  and  spirit  of 
Jesus  Christ. 

55  Q  Where  hath  Christ  promised  and  assured  us  of 
this? 

A  In  the  institution  of  baptism,  which  is  as  follows, 
"  Go  ye  into  all  the  world,  and  preach  the  gospel  to  every 
creature.  He  that  believe, h  and  is  baptized  shall  be  sav- 
ed, but  he  that  believeth  not,  shall  be  damned.5* 

56  Q  Are  infants  also  to  be  baptized  ? 

A  Yes  :  for  they  as  well  as  the  adult  are  comprehended 
in  the  covenant  of  God,  and  in  his  church. 

57  Q  Which  is  the  outward  sign  in  the  Lord's  supper? 
A  The  broken  bread  that  we   eat,  and  the  poured  out 

wine  which  we  drink,  in  remembrance  of  the  sufferings 
and  death  of  Christ. 

58  Q  What  is  thereby  signified  and  sealed  ? 

A  That  Christ,  with  his  crucified  body  and  shed  blood, 
feeds  and  nourishes  our  soulr  to  everlasting  life. 

59  Q  Where  hath  Christ  promised  such  things  to  us  ? 
A  In  the  institution  of  the  Lord's  supper,  which  is  thus 

expressed,  by  St.  Paul,  1  Cor.  11.  23,  24,  25,  25,  "  For 
I  have  received  of  the  Lord,  that  which  also  I  delivered 
unto  you,  that  the  Lord  Jesus  the  same  night  in  which  he 
was  betrayed,  took  bread  ;  and  when  he  had  given  thanks, 
brake  it,  and  said,  take  eat ;  this  is  my  body,  which  is  bro- 
ken for  you  :  this  do  in  remembrance  of  me.  After  the 
same  manner  also  he  took  the  cup,  when  he  had  supped, 
saying,  this  cup  is  the  new  testament  in  my  blood  :  this  do 
D2 


2  A  COMPENDIUM. 

yej  as  oft  as  ye  drink  it,  in  remembrance  of  me.  For  as 
oft  as  ye  eat  this  bread,  and  drink  this  cup,  ye  do  shew  the 
Lord's  death  till  he  come." 

60  Q  Is  the  bread  changed  into  the  body  of  Christ,  and 
the  wine  into  his  blcod  ? 

A  No  :  no  more  than  the  water  in  baptism  is  changed 
into  the  blocd  of  Christ. 

6 1  Q  Ahcr  what  manner  must  you  examine  yourself 
before  you  come  to  the  Lord's  supper  ? 

A  1.  I  must  examine  whether  I  abhor  myself  for  my 
sins,  and  humble  myself  before  God  on  account  of  them. 
2.  Whether  I  believe  and  trust  that  all  my  sins  are  for- 
given me  for  Christ's  sake.  3.  Whether  I  also  have  a  sin- 
cere resolution  henceforward,  to  walk  in  all  good  works. 

62  Q  May  those  be  admitted  to  the  Lord's  supper,  who 
teach  false  doctrines,  or  lead  offensive  lives  ? 

A  No  :  lest  the  covenant  of  God  be  profaned,  and  his 
wrath  kindled  against  the  whole  church. 

63  Q  How  must  we  then  deal  with  such  persons  ? 

A  According  to  the  appointment  given  us  by  Christ, 
Matt.  18.  15,  16,  17,  "If  thy  b  other  shall  trespass 
against  thee,  go  and  tell  him  his  fault  between  thee  and  him 
alone:  if  he  shall  hear  thee,  thou  hast  gained  thy  brother: 
but  if  he  will  not  hear  thee,  then  take  with  thee  one  or  two 
more,  that  in  the  mouth  of  two  or  three  witnesses  every 
word  may  be  established  :  and  if  he  shall  neglect  to  hear 
them,  tell  it  unto  the  church  ;  but  if  he  neglect  to  hear  the 
•church,  let  him  be  unto  thee,  as  an  heathen  man,  and  a 
publican." 

PART    THE    THIRD. 

OF  THE  GRATITUDE  WE  OWE  TO  GOD 
FOR  REDEMPTION. 

64  Q  Since  we  are  saved  merely  of  grace  through 
Christ,  why  must  we  then  yet  do  good  works  ? 

A  Not  to  merit  heaven  thereby  (which  Christ  hath 
done)  but  because  this  is  commanded  me  of  God. 

65  Q  What  purpose  then  do  your  good  works  answer? 
A  That  I  should  thereby  testify  my  thankfulness  to 

God  for  all  his  benefits,  and  that  he  may  be  glorified  by 
me  ;  and  that  also  I  may  be  assured  of  the  sincerity  of  my 
faith  by  good  works,  as  the  fruits  thereof,  and  that  my 
neighbours  may  be  edified  thereby  and  gained  to  Christ. 


A  COMPENDIUM.  43 

66  Q  Shall  they  also  be  saved  who  do  no  good  works  ? 
A  No,  for  the  scripture  saith,  that  neither  fornicators, 

nor  idoiators,  nor  adulterers,  nor  whoremongers,  nop 
thieves,  nor  covetous,  nor  drunkards,  nor  revilers,  nor 
robbers,  nor  such  like,  shall  inherit  the  kingdom  of  God, 
1  Cor.  6.  9,  and  10.  unless  they  turn  to  the  Lord. 

67  Q  Wherein  doth  the  conversion  of  man  consist  ? 

A  In  a  hearty  repentance  and  avoiding  of  sin,  and  in  an 
earnest  desire  after,  and  doing  of  all  good  works. 

68  Q  What  are  good  works  ? 

A  Only  those  which  proceed  from  a  true  faith,  are  done 
according  to  the  law  of  God,  and  to  his  glory,  and  not 
those  which  are  founded  on  human  institutions,  or  on  our 
own  imaginations. 

69  Q  Can  they  who  are  converted  to  God,  perfectly 
keep  the  law  ? 

A  Not  at  all :  but  even  the  most  holy  men,  as  long  as 
they  are  in  this  life,  have  only  a  small  beginning  of  this 
obedience  ;  yet  so,  that  they  with  a  sincere  resolution  be- 
gin to  live  not  only  according  to  some,  but  according  to 
all  the  commandments  of  God,  as  they  also  constantly 
pray  to  God  that  they  mtiy  daily  increase  therein. 

70  Q  To  whom  must  we  pray  for  this  ? 

A  Not  to  any  creature,  but  to  God  alone,  who  can  help 
us,  and  will  hear  us  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake. 

71  Q  In  whose  name  must  we  pray  to  God  ? 

A  Only  in  the  name  of  Christ,  John  16.  23.  and  not 
in  the.  name  of  any  saints. 

72  Q  What  must  we  pray  to  God  for  ? 

A  For  all  things  necessary  for  soul  and  body,  which 
Christ  our  Lord  has  comprised  in  that  prayer  he  himself 
has  taught  us. 

73  Q  What  are  the  words  of  that  prayer  ? 

A  Our  Father  which  art  in  heaven,  hallowed  be  thy 
name.  Thy  kingdom  come.  Thy  will  be  done  in  earth, 
as  it  is  in  heaven.  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread.  And 
forgive  us  our  debts,  as  we  forgive  our  debtors,  and  lead 
us  not  into  temptation,  but  deliver  us  from  evil.  For 
thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the  glory,  for 
ever.  '  Amen. 

74  Q  What  do  you  desire  of  God  in  this  prayer  ? 

A  1.  That  ul  h'.rgs  which  tend  to  the  glory  of  God, 
may  be  promoted,  and  that  whatsoever  is  repugnant  there- 
to, or  contrary  to  his  will,  may  be  preventad.     2.  That 


44  THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH 

he  may  provide  me  with  ail  things  necessary  for  the  body, 
and  as  to  my  soul,  preserve  me  from  all  evil,  which  might 
in  any  wise  be  detrimental  to  my  salvation.     Amen. 

[When  those  persons  who  are  inclined  to  become  mem- 
bers of  the  church,  thoroughly  know  and  confess  these 
fundamental  truths :  they  are  then  to  be  asked  whether 
they  have  any  doubt  in  any  point  concerning  the  doctrine  ; 
to  the  end  that  they  may  be  satisfied  :  ioid  in  case  any  of 
them  should  answer  in  the  affirmative,  endeavours  must 
be  used  to  convince  them,  out  of  the  scriptures  ;  and  if 
they  are  all  satisfied,  they  must  be  asked,  whether  they 
propose,  by  the  grace  of  God,  to  persevere  in  this  doc- 
trine, and  to  forsake  the  world,  and  to  lead  a  new  chris- 
tian life.  Lastly,  they  are  to  be  asked,  whether  they  will 
submit  themselves  to  the  christian  discipline. 

Which  being  done,  they  are  to  be  exhorted  to  peace, 
love  and  concord  with  all  men,  and  to  reconciliation,  if 
there  is  any  variance  subsisting  between  them  and  their 
neighbours.] 

End  of  the  comjiendium. 

THE 

CONFESSION  OF  FAITH, 

OF  THE  REFORMED  CHURCHES  IN  THE 
NETHERLANDS. 

m 
REVISED  IN  THE  NATIONAL  SYNOD,    LAST  HELD   AT 

DORT,    IN  THE  YEARS   1618  AND  '19. 


Wl 


ARTICLE     I. 

That  there  is  one  only  GOD. 


E  all  believe  with  the  heart,  and  confess  with  the 
mouth,  that  there  is  one  only  and  simple  spiritual  Being, 
which  we  call  God  ;  and  that  he  is  eternal,  incomprehen- 
sible, invisible,  immutable,  infinite  Almighty,  perfectl) 
wise,  just,  good,  and  the  overflowing  fountain  of  all  good. 
II.  By  what  means  GOD  is  made  known  unto  us. 
We  know  him  by  two  means  :  first,  by  the  creation, 
preservation  and  government  of  the  universe  ;  which  is 
before  our  eyes  as  a  most  elegant  book,  wherein  all  crca- 


THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH.  45 

Uires,  great  and  small,  are  as  so  many  characters  leading 
us  to  contemplate  the  invisible  thi?igs  of  God,  namely, 
his  eternal  flower  and  Godhead,  as  the  apostle  Paul  saith, 
Rom.  1.  20.  All  which  things  are  sufficient  to  convince 
men,  and  leave  them  without  excuse.  Secondly,  he 
makes  himself  more  clearly  and  fully  known  to  us  by  his 
holy  and  divine  word  ;  that  is  to  say,  as  far  as  is  necessa- 
ry for  us  to  know  in  this  life,  to  his  glory  and  our  sal* 
vation. 

III.  Of  the  written  word  of  God. 
We  confess,  that  this  word  of  God,  was  not  sent  nor 
delivered  by  the  will  of  man,  but  that  holy  men  of  God 
sfiake  as  they  were  ?ncved  by  the  Holy  Ghost,  as  the 
apostle  Peter  saith.  And  that  afterwards  God,  from  a 
special  care  which  he  has  for  us  and  our  salvation,  com- 
manded his  servants,  the  prophets  and  apostles,  to  com- 
mit his  revealed  word  to  writing,  and  he  himself  wrote 
with  his  own  finger,  the  two  tabies  of  the  law  :  There- 
fore we  call  such  writings  holy  and  divine  scriptures. 

IV.      Canonical  books  of  the  holy  Scripture. 

We  believe  that  the  holy  scriptures  are  contained  in 
two  books,  namely,  the  old  and  new  testament,  which 
are  canonical,  against  which  nothing  can  be  alledged : 
These  are  thus  named  in  the  church  of  God.  The  books 
of  the  old  testament  are,  the  five  books  of  Moses,  viz. 
Genesis,  Exodus,  Leviticus,  Numbers,  Deuteronomy ; 
the  book  of  Joshua,  Judges,  Ruth,  two  books  of  Samuel, 
and  two  of  the  Kings  ;  two  bocks  of  the  Chronicles,  com- 
monly called  Paralipomenon,  the  first  of  Ezra,  Nehemiah, 
Esther,  Job,  the  Psalms  of  David,  the  three  books  of 
Solomon,  namely,  the  Proverbs,  Ecclesiastes,  and  the 
Song  of  Songs  ;  the  four  great  prophets,  Isaiah,  Jere- 
miah, Ezekiel,  and  Daniel ;  and  the  twelve  lesser  pro- 
phets, namely,  Hoseah,  Joel,  Amos,  Obediah,  Jonah, 
Micah,  Nahum,  Habbakuk,  Zephaniah,  Haggai,  Ze- 
chariah,  Melachi. 

Those  of  the  new  testament  are  the  four  evangelists, 
viz.  Matthew,  Mark,  Luke  ond  John  ;  the  acts  of  the 
apostles  ;  the  fourteen  epistles  of  the  apostle  Paul,  viz. 
one  to  the  Romans,  two  to  the  Corinthians,  one  to  the 
Gallatians,  one  to  the  Ephesians,  one  to  the  PhTppians, 
one  to  the  Colossians,  two  to  the  Thessalonians,  two  to 
Timothy,  one  to  Ticus,  one  to  Philemon,  and  one  to  the 
Hebrews  ;  The  seven  epistles  of  the  other  apostles,  name- 


46  THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH. 

ly,  one  of  James,  two  of  Peter,  three  of  John,  one  of 

Jude,  and  the  Revelation  of  the  apostle  John. 

V.  From  whence  do  the  holy  scriptures  derive 
their  dignity  and  authority. 
We  receive  all  these  books  and  these  only  as  holy  and 
canonical,  for  the  regulation,  foundation,  and  confirmation 
of  our  faith  ;  believing  without  any  doubt  all  things  con- 
tained in  them,  not  so  much  because  the  church  receives 
and  approves  them  as  such,  but  more  especially  because 
the  Holy  Ghost  witnesseth  in  our  hearts,  that  they  are 
from  God,  whereof  they  carry  the  evidence  in  themselves  : 
For  the  very  blind  are  able  to  perceive  that  the  things 
foretold  in  them  are  fulfilling. 

VI.  The  difference  between   the  canonical  and  a/iocry- 

phical  books. 
We  distinguish  those  sacred  books  from  the  apocry- 
phicai,  viz.  the  third  and  fourth  book  of  Esdras,  the  books 
of  Tobias,  Judith,  Wisdom,  Jesus  Syrach,  Baruch,  the  ap- 
pendix to  the  book  of  Esther,  the  song  of  the  three  chil- 
dren in  the  Furnace,  the  history  of  Susannah,  of  Bell  and 
the  Dragon,  the  prayer  of  Manasses,  and  the  two  books  of 
the  Maccabees  :  All  which  the  church  may  read  and  take 
instruction  fi  om,  so  far  as  they  agree  with  the  canonical 
books  :  But  they  are  far  from  having  such  power  and  effi- 
cacy, as  that  we  may  from  their  testimony  confirm  any 
point  of  faith,  or  of  the  christian  religion  ;  much  less  to 
detract  from  the  authority  of  the  other  sacred  books. 

VII.  The  sufficiency  of  the  holy   scriptures,  to   be   the 

only   "ule  of  faith. 
We  believe  that  those  holy  scriptures,  fully  contain  the 
will  of  God,  and  that  whatsoever  man  ought  to  believe 
unto  salvation,  is  sufficiently  u  light  therein.     For  since 
the  whole  manner  of  worship  which  God  requires  of  us,  , 
is  written  in  them  at  large,  it  is  unlawful  for  any  one, 
though  an  apostle,  to  teach  otherwise,  than  we  are  now  I 
taught  in  the  holy  scriptures  :  Nay,  though  it  was  an  an-  \ 
gel  from  heaven,  as  the  apostle  Paul  saith.     For  since  it 
is  forbidden,  to  add  unto  or  take  away  any  thing  from 
the  word  of  God,  it  doth  thereby  evidently  appear,  that, 
the  doctrine  thereof  is  most  perfect  and  compleat  in  all! 
respects.     Neither  may  we  compare  any  writings  of  men, 
though  never  so  holy,  with  those  divine  scriptures,  nor 
ought  we  to  compare  custom,  or  the  great  multitude,  or 


THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH.  4* 

antiquity,  or  succession  of  times  or  persons,  or  councils, 
decrees  or  statutes,  with  the  truth  of  God,  for  the  truth 
is  above  all ;  for  all  men  are  of  themselves  liars,  and  more 
vain  than  vanity  itself :  Therefore,  we  reject  with  all  our 
hearts,  whatsoever  doth  not  agree  with  this  infalliable 
rule,  which  the  apostles  have  taught  us  saying,  try  the 
spirits  wether  they  are  of  GOD.  Likewise,  if  there 
come  any  unto  you  and  bring  not  this  doctrine,  receive 
him  not  into  your  house. 

VIII.  That  GOD  is  one,  in  essence,   yet  nevertheless 

distinguished  in  three  persons. 
According  to  this  truth  and  this  word  of  God,  we  be- 
lieve in  one  only  God,  who  is  one  single  essence,  in 
which  are  three  persons,  really,  truely,  and  eternally  dis- 
tinct, according  to  their  incommunicable  properties  ; 
namely  the  Father,  and  the  Son,  and  the  Holy  Ghost. 
The  Father  is  the  cause,  origin  and  beginning  of  all  things 
visible  and  invisible  ;  the  Son  is  the  word,  wisdom,  and 
image  of  the  Father  ;  the  Holy  Ghost  is  the  eternal  pow- 
er and  might,  proceeding  from  the  Father  and  the  Son. 
Nevertheless  God  is  not  by  this  distinction  divided  into 
three,  since  the  holy  scriptures  teach  us,  that  the  Father, 
and  the  Son,  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  have  each  his  personali- 
ty, distinguished  by  their  properties ;  but  in  such  wise 
that  these  three  persons  are  but  one  only  God.  Hence 
then  it  is  evident,  that  the  Father  is  not  the  Son,  nor  the 
Son  the  Father,  and  likewise  the  Holy  Ghost  is  neither 
the  Father  nor  the  Son.  Nevertheless  these  persons  thus 
distinguished  are  not  divided,  nor  intermixed  :  For  the 
Father  hath  not  assumed  the  flesh,  nor  hath  the  Holy 
Ghost,  but  the  Son  only.  The  Father  hath  never  been 
without  his  Son,  or  without  his  Holy  Ghost :  For  they 
are  all  three  co-eternal  and  co-essential.  There  is  neither 
first  nor  last,  for  they  are  all  three,  one,  in  truth,  in  pow- 
er,  in  goodness,  and  in  mercy. 

IX.  The  fir  oof  of  the  foregoing  article  of  the    trinity 

of  persons  in  one  God. 
All  this  we  know,  as  well  from  the  testimonies  of  holy 
writ,  as  from  their  operations,  and  chiefly  by  those  we 
feel  in  ourselves.  The  testimonies  of  the  holy  scriptures 
that  teach  us  to  believe  this  holy  trinity,  are  written  in 
many  places  of  the  old  testament,  which  are  not  so  ne- 
cessary to  enumerate,  as  to  choose  them  out  with  discre- 


48  THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH. 

tion  and  judgment.     In  Genesis,  Chap.   1.  26,  27,  God 
saith  :  Let  us  make  man  in  our  image,  after  our  likeness, 
\Ifc,     So  God  created  man  in  his  own  image,  male  and 
female  created  he   them  :     And  Gen.  iii.  22.   behold  the 
man  has  become  as  one  of  us.     From  this  saying,  let  us 
make  man  in  our  image,  it  appears  that  there  are  more 
persons  than  one  in  the  Godhead  :    And  when  he  saith, 
God  created,  signifies  the  unity.     It  is  true  he  doth  not 
say  how  many  persons  there  are,  but  that  which  appears 
to  us  somewhat  obscure  in  the  old  testament,  is  very 
plain  in  the  new.     For  when  our  Lord  was  baptized  in 
Jordan,  the  voice  of  the  Father  was  heard,  saying,  this  is 
my  beloved  So?i :     The  Son  was  seen  in  the  water,  and 
the  Holy  Ghost  appeared  in  the   shape  of  a  dove.     This 
form  is  also  instituted  by  Christ  in  the  baptism  of  all  be- 
lievers.    Baptize  all  nations,  in  the  name  of  the  Father, 
and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost,     In  the  Gospel  of 
Luke,  the  angel  Gabriel,  thus  addressed  Mary  the  mother 
of  our  Lord,  the  Holy  Ghost  shall  come  upon  thee,  and 
the  fioiver  of  the  highest  shall  overshadow  thee,  therefore 
also  that  holy  thing  which  shall  be  born  of  thee,  shall  be 
called  the   Son  of  God :      Likewise    the    grace    of  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  love  of  God,  and  the  com- 
munion of  the  Holy  Ghost  be  with  you.     And  there  are 
three  that  bear  record  in  Heaven,  the  Father,  the  Word, 
and  the  Holy  Ghost,  and  these  three  are  one.     In  all 
which  places  we  are  fully  taught,  mat  there  are  three 
persons  in  one  only  divine  essence.     And  although  this 
doctrine  far  surpasses  all  human  understanding,  neverthe- 
less we  now  believeit  by  means  of  the  word  of  God,  but  ex- 1 
pect  hereafter  to  enjoy  the  perfect  knowledge  and  benefit! 
thereof  in  Heaven.  Moreover  we  must  observe  the  parti-  I 
cular  offices  and  operations  of  these  three  persons  towards 
us.  The  Fatheris  called  our  creator  by  his  power;  The  Son  ! 
is  our  Saviour  and  Redeemer  by  his  blood  j  the  Holy 
Ghost  is  our  sanctifier,  by  his  dwelling  in  our  hearts. 
This  doctrine  of  the  holy  trinity,  hath  always  been  defend- 
ed and  maintained  by  the  true  church,  since  the  times  of 
the  apostles,  to  this  very  day,  against  the  Jews,  Mahomet- 
ans, and  some  false  christians  and  hereticks,  as  Marcoin, 
Maries,  Prozes,   Sabellius,    Samosatenus,    Arrius,    and 
such  like,  who  have  been  justly  condemned  by  the  ortho- 
dox fathers.     Therefore,  in  this  point,  we  do  willingly 
receive  the  three  creeds,  namely  that  of  the  Apostles,  pf 


THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH.  m 

Nice,  and  of  Athanusius  :  Likewise  that  which  conforma- 
ble thereunto,  is  agreeo  upon  by  the  undent  lathers. 
X.    That  Jesus  Christ  is  true  and  eternal  God. 

We  beiieve  that  Jesus  Christ,  according  to  his  divine 
nature,  is  the  only  begotten  Son  cl  God,  begotten  Horn 
eternity,  not  made  or  created  (for  then  he  should  be  a  crea- 
ture) but  co-essential  and  eerreteroai  With  the  Father,  the 
express  image  of  his  frer son,  and  the  brightness  of  his 
glory,  equal  unto  him  in  ali  things.  Who  is  the  Son  of 
God,  not  only  from  the  time  that  he  assumed  our  nature, 
but  from  all  eternity,  as  tnese  testimonies  when  compared 
together,  teach  us.  Moses  saith,  that  God  created  the 
world  ;  and  John  saith,  that  all  things  were  made  by  thai 
word,  which  he  caileth  God  :  And  the  apostle  saith,  that 
God  made  the  worlds  by  his  Son.  Likewise,  that  God 
created  all  things  through  Jesus  Christ.  Therefore  it 
must  needs  follow,  that  he  who  is  called  God,  the  Word, 
the  Son,  and  Jesus  Christ,  did  exist  at  that  time,  when  all 
things  were  created  by  him.  Therefore  the  prophet  Mi- 
cah  Saith  ;  his  goings  forth  have  betn  from  of  old,  from 
everlasting.  And  the  apostle  ;  he  hath  neither  beginning 
of  days,  nor  end  of  life  :  He  therefore  is  that  true,  eternal 
and  almighty  God*  whom  we  invoke,  worship,  and  serve. 
XI.    That  the  Holy  Ghost  is  true  and  eternal  God. 

We  believe  and  confess  also,  that  the  Holy  Ghost,  from 
eternity  proceeds  from  the  Father  and  Son ;  and  therefore 
neither  is  made,  created,  nor  begotten,  but  only  proceed - 
eth  from  both ;  who  in  order  is  the  third  person  of  the  ho- 
ly trinity;  of  one  and  the  same  essence,  majesty  ^nd  glory 
with  the  Father,  and  the  Son:  and  therefore,  is  the  true 
and  eternal  God,  as  the  holy  scripture  teaches  us. 
XII.   Of  the  Creation. 

We  believe,  that  the  Father  by  the  word,  that  is  by  his 
Son,  hath  created  of  nothing,  the  heaven,  the  earth,  and 
all  creatures,  as  it  seemed  good  unto  him,  giving  unto 
every  creature  its  being,  shape,  form,  and  several  offices 
to  serve  its  creator.  That  he  doth  also  still  uphold  and 
govern  them  by  his  eternal  providence,  and  infinite  power, 
for  the  service  of  mankind,  to  the  end  that  man  nn.y  serve 
his  God.  He  hath  also  created  the  angels  good,  to  be 
his  messengers,  ...nd  to  serve  his  elect ;  some  of  whom 
are  fallen   from  that  excellency,  in  which  God  created 

E 


50  THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH. 

thom,  into  everlasting  perdition :  And  the  others  have* 
by  the  grace  of  God,  remained  stedfast  and  continued  in 
their  primitive  state.  The  devils  and  evil  spirits  are  so 
depraved,  that  they  are  enemies  of  God  and  every  good 
thing,  to  the  utmost  of  their  power,  as  murderers,  watch- 
ing to  ruin  the  church  and  every  member  thereof,  and  by 
their  wicked  stratagems  to  destroy  all :  and  are  therefore, 
by  their  own  wickedness,  adjudged  to  eternal  damnation, 
daily  expecting  their  horrible  torments.  Therefore  we 
reject  and  abhor  the  error  of  the  Sadducecs,  who  deny 
the  existence  of  spirits  and  angels  :  and  also  that  of  the 
Manichees,  who  assert  that  the  devils  have  their  origin 
of  themselves,  and  that  they  are  wicked  of  their  own  na- 
ture, without  having  been  corrupted. 

XIII.  Of  Divine  Providence. 
We  believe  that  the  same  God,  after  he  had  created 
all  things  did  not  forsake  them,  or  give  them  up  to  for- 
tune or  chance,  but  that  he  rules  and  governs  them  ac- 
cording to  his  holy  will,  so  that  nothing  happens  in  this 
world  without  his  appointment :  nevertheless  God  nei- 
ther is  the  author  of,  nor  can  be  charged  with  the  sins 
which  are  committed.  For  his  power  and  goodness  is  so 
great  and  incomprehensible,  that  he  orders  and  executes 
his  work  in  the  most  excellent  and  just  manner,  even 
then,  when  devils  and  wicked  men  act  unjustly.  And  as 
to  what  he  doth  surpassing  human  understanding,  we  will 
not  curiously  enquire  into  farther  than  our  capacity  will 
admit  of ;  but  with  greatest  humility  and  reverence  adore 
the  righteous  judgments  of  God,  which  are  hid  from  us, 
contenting  ourselves  that  we  are  disciples  of  Christ,  to 
learn  only  those  things  which  he  has  revealed  to  us  in  his 
word,  without  transgressing  these  limits.  This  doctrine 
affords  us  unspeakable  consolation,  since  we  are  taught 
thereby,  that  nothing  can  befal  us  by  chance,  but  by  the 
direction  of  our  most  graeious  and  heavenly  Father  ;  who 
watches  over  us  with  a  paternal  care,  keeping  all  crea- 
tures so  under  his  power,  that  not  a  hair  of  our  head  (for 
they  are  all  numbered)  nor  a  sparrow  can  fall  to  the 
ground,  without  the  will  of  our  Father,  in  whom  we  do 
entirely  trust,  being  persuaded,  that  he  so  restrains  the 
devil  and  all  our  enemies,  that  without  his  will  and  per- 
mission, they  cannot  hurt  us.  And  therefore  we  reject 
that  damnable  error  of  the  Epicurians,  who  say  that  God 
regards  nothing,  but  leaves  all  things  to  chance. 


THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH.  51 

XIV.    Of  the  creation  and  fall  of  man,   and  hi*  in- 
capacity to  perform  what  in  truly  good. 

We  believe  that  God  created  man  out  of  the  dust  of 
the  earth,  and  made  and  formed  him  after  his  own  image 
and  likeness,  good,  righteous,  and  holy,  capable  in  ail 
tilings  to  will,  agreeable  to  the  will  of  God.  But  being 
in  honour,  he  understood  it  not,  neither  knew  his  excel- 
lency, but  wilfully  subjected  himself  to  sin,,  and  conse- 
quently to  death,  and  the  curse,  giving  ear  to  the  words 
of  the  devil.  For  the  commandment  of  life  which  he  had 
received,  he  transgressed  ;  and  by  sin  separated  himself 
from  God,  who  was  his  true  life,  having  corrupted  his 
whole  nature  ;  whereby  he  made  himself  liable  to  corpo- 
ral and  spiritual  death.  And  being  thus  become  wicked, 
perverse  and  corrupt  in  all  his  ways,  he  hath  iost  all  his 
excellent  gifts,  which  he  had  received  from  God,  and 
only  retained  a  few  remains  thereof,  which  however  arc 
sufficient  to  leave  man  without  excuse  ;  for  ail  the  light 
which  is  in  us  is  changed  into  darkness,  as  the  scriptures 
teach  us,  saying :  "  The  light  shineth  in  darkness,  and 
"  the  darkness  comprehendeth  it  not :"  Where  St.  John 
calleth  men  darkness.  Therefore  we  reject  all  what  is 
taught  repugnant  to  this,  concerning  the  free  will  of  man, 
since  man  is  but  a  slave  to  sin  ;  and  has  nothing  of  him- 
self, unless  it  is  given  him  from  heaven.  For  who  may 
presume  to  boast,  that  he  of  himself  can  do  any  good, 
since  Christ  saith,  "  no  man  can  come  to  me,  except  the 
"  Father  which  hath  sent  me,  draw  him?"  Who  will  glory 
in  his  own  will,  who  understands  that  to  be  carnally  mind- 
ed is  enmity  against  God  ?  Who  can  speak  of  his  know- 
ledge, since  "  the  natural  man  receiveth  not  the  things 
"  of  the  spirit  of  God."  In  short  who  dare  suggest  any 
thought,  since  he  knows  that  we  are  not  sufficient  of  our- 
selves to  think  any  thing  as  of  ourselves,  but  that  our  suf- 
ficiency is  of  God  ?  And  therefore  what  the  apostle  saith 
ought  justly  to  be  held  sure  and  firm,  "  that  God  worketh 
"  in  us  both  to  will  and  to  do  of  his  good  pleasure."  For 
there  is  no  will  nor  understanding,  conformable  to  the  di- 
vine will  and  understanding,  but  what  Christ  hath  wrought 
in  man.  Which  he  teaches  us,  when  he  saith,  "  without 
"  me  ye  can  do  nothing." 

XV.    Of  original  sin. 
We  believe  that  through  the  disobedience  of  Adar?L» 


52  THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH. 

original  sin  is  extended  to  all  mankind  ;  winch  is  a  cor- 
ruption of  the  whole  nature,  and  an  hereditary  disease, 
wherewith  infants  themselves  ure  infected  ever  in  their 
mother's  womb,  and  which  produced)  in  man  all  sorts  of 
sin,  being  in  him  as  a  root  thereof ;  and  therefore  is  so 
vile  and  abominable  in  the  sight  of  God,  that  it  is  suffi- 
cient to  condemn  all  mankind.  Nor  is  it  by  any  means 
abolished  or  done  away  by  baptism  ;  since  sin  always  is- 
sues forth  from  this  woeful  source,  as  water  from  a 
fountain  ;  notwithstanding  it  is  not  imputed  to  the  chil- 
dren of  God  unto  condemnation,  but  by  his  grace  and 
mercy  is  forgiven  them.  Not  that  they  should  rest  se- 
curely in  sin,  but  that  a  sense  of  this  corruption  should 
make  believers  often  to  sigh,  desiring  to  be  delivered 
from  this  body  of  death.  Wherefore  we  reject  the  error 
of  the  Pelagians,  who  assert  that  sin  proceeds  only  from 
imitation. 

XVI.    Of  eternal  election. 

We  believe  that  all  the  posterity  of  Adam,  being  thus 
fallen  into  perdition  and  ruin,  by  the  sin  of  our  first  pa- 
rents, that  God  then  did  manifest  himself  such  as  he  is  ; 
that  is  to  say,  merciful  and  just.  Merciful,  since 
he  delivers  and  preserves  from  this  perdition  all  whom  he 
in  his  eternal  and  unchangeable  council  of  mere  goodness 
hath  elected  in  Christ  Jesus  'our  Lord,  without  any  re* 
spect  to  their  works.  Just  in  leaving  others  in  the  fall 
and  perdition  wherein  they  have  involved  themselves. 
XVII.     Of  the  recovery  of  fallen  man. 

We  believe  that  our  most  gracious  God  in  his  admi- 
rable wisdom  and  goodness,  seeing  that  man  had  thus 
thrown  himself  into  temporal  and  spiritual  death,  and 
made  himself  wholly  miserable,  was  pleased  to  seek  and 
comfort  him  when  he  trembling  fled  from  his  presence, 
promising  him  that  he  would  give  his  Son,  who  should 
be  made  of  a  woman  to  bruise  the  head  of  the  serpent, 
and  make  him  happy. 

XVIII.   Of  the  incarnation  of  Jesus  Christ. 

We  confess  therefore,  that  God  did  fulfil  the  promise 
which  he  made  to  the  fathers,  by  the  mouth  of  his  holy- 
prophets,  when  he  sent  into  the  world,  at  the  time  ap- 
pointed by  him,  his  own,  only  begotten  and  eternal  Son. 
«  Who  took  upon  him  the  form  of  a  servant,  and  became 


THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH.  53 

like  unto  man,  reuiiy  assuming  the- true  human  nature, 
with  aH  its  infirmities,  sin  excepted,  being  conceived  in 
the  womb  of  the  blessed  Virgin  Mcjy,  by  the  power  of 
the  Holy  Ghost,  without  tnc  means  of  mm.  And  did 
not  only  assume  human  nature  as  to  the  body,  but  also  a 
true  human  soul,  that  he  might  be  a  peal  m  n.  Foi-  since 
the  soul  was  lost  as  well  as  the  body,  it  Wc.s  Accessary  that 
he  should  take  both  upon  him  to  save  both.  Therefore 
we  confess  (in  opposition  to  the  heresy  oi  the  An  .-baptists, 
who  deny  that  Christ  assumed  human  flesh  of  nis  mother) 
that  Christ  has  become  a  partaker  of  the.flesh  yiid  blood 
of  the  children  ;  that  he  is  a  fruit  of  the  loins  oi  David 
after  the  flesh  ;  made  of  the  seed  of  David  according  to 
the  flesh  ;  a  fruit  of.the  womb  of  the  Virgin  M.  y  :  m  de 
of  a  woman  :  a  branch  of  David  ;  a  shoot  of  the  root  of 
Jesse  ;  sprung  from  the  tribe  of  Judah  :  descended  from 
the  Jews  according  to  the  flesh  :  of  the  seed  of  Abraham, 
since  he  took  upon  him  the  seed  of  Abraham,  "  and  L  i  - 
"  came  like  unto  his  brethren  in  all  things  sin  excepted  ; 
so  that  in  truth  he  is  our  Immanuel,  that  is  to  say,  God 
with  us. 

XIX.      Of  the  union  and  distinction  of  the  two 
natures  in  the  person  of  Christ. 

We  believe  that  by  this  conception,  the  person  of  the 
Son  is  inseparably  united  and  connected  with  the  human 
nature.  So  that  there  are  not  two  Sons  of  God,  nor  two 
persons,  but  two  natures  united  in  one  single  person,  yet 
each  nature  retains  its  own  distinct  properties.  As  then 
the  divine  nature  hath  always  remained  uncreated,  without 
beginning  of  days  or  end  of  life,  filling  heaven  and  earth  : 
also  hath  the  human  nature  not  lost  its  properties,  but  re- 
ftiained  a  creature,  having  beginning,  of  days,  feeing  a 
finite  nature,  and  retaining  all  the  properties  of  a  real  Ko- 
dy.  And  though  he  hath  by  his  resurrection  give 
mortality  to  the  same,  nevertheless  he  hath  not  ch; 
the  reality  of  his  human  nature;  forasmuch  as  om  sol- 
vation and  resurrection  also  depend  on  the  reatyty  of  his 
body.  But  these  two  natures  are  so  closely  united  in  one 
person,  that  they  were  not  separated  even  by  ens  de  ,th. 
Therefore  that  which  he  when  dying  commended  into  the 
hands  of  his  Father,  was  a  real  human  spirit,  departing 
from  his  body  :  But  in  the  mean  time  the  divine  nature 
always  remained  united  with  the  human,  even  when  he 
E2 


S«  THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH. 

laid  in  the  grave  :  And  the  God-head  did  not  cease  to  be 
in  him,  any  more  than  it  did  when  he  was  an  infant,  tho' 
it  did  not  so  clearly  manifest  itself  for  a  while.  Where- 
fore we  confess,  that  he  is  very  God  ;  and  very  Man  : 
Very  God  by  his  power,  to  conquer  death  ;  and  very  man 
that  he  might  die  for  us  according  to  the  infirmity  of  his 
flesh. 

XX.    That  God  hath  manifested  his  righteousness 
and  mercy  in  Christ. 

We  believe,  that  God  who  is  perfectly  merciful  and 
just,  sent  his  Son  to  assume  that  nature,  in  which  the 
disobedience  was  committed,  to  make  satisfaction  in  the 
same,  and  to  bear  the  punishment  of  sin  by  his  most  bit- 
ter passion  and  death.  God  therefore" manifested  his  jus- 
tice against  his  Son,  when  he  laid  our  iniquities  upon 
him,  and  poured  forth  his  mercy  and  goodness  on  us,  who 
where  guilty  and  worthy  of  damnation,  out  of  mere  and 
perfect  love  giving  his  Son  unto  death  for  us,  and  rais- 
ing him  for  our  justification,  that  through  him  we  might 
obtain  immortality  and  life  eternal. 

XXL    Of  the  satisfaction  of  Christ,  our  only 
high  priest,  for  us. 

We  believe  that  Jesus  Christ  is  ordained  with  an  oath 
to  be  an  everlasting  liigh  priest,  after  the  order  of  Mel- 
chisedeck.  Who  hath  presented  himself  in  our  behalf 
before  his  Father,  to  appease  his  wrath  by  his  full  satis- 
faction, offering  himself  on  the  tree  of  the  cross,  and 
pouring  out  his  precious  blood  to  purge  away  our  sins  ; 
as  the  prophets  had  foretold.  For  it  is  written,  "'he  was 
u  wounded  for  our  transgressions,  he  was  bruised  for  our 
"  iniquities  :  The  chastisement  of  our  peace  was  upon 
"  him,  and  with  his  stripes  we  are  healed :  He  was 
"  brought  as  a  lamb  to  the  slaughter,  and  numbered  with 
"  the  transgressors  ;"  and  condemned  by  Pontius  Pilate 
as  a  melefactor,  though  he  had  first  declared  him  innocent. 
Therefore,  "  he  restored  that  which  he  took  not  away, 
"and  suffered,  the  just  for  the  unjust,"  as  well  in  his 
body  as  soul,  feeling  the  terrible  punishment  which  our 
sins  had  merited,  insomuch  "  that  his  sweat  became  like 
"  unto  drops  of  blood  falling  on  the  ground."  He  called 
out,  "  my  God,  my  God,  why  hast  thou  forsaken  mc  ?" 
And  hath  suffered  .11  this  for  the  remission  of  our  sins. 
Wherefore  we  justly  say  with  the  apostle  Paul,  "  that  we 


THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH.  55 

know  nothing,  but  Jesus  Christ,  and  him  crucified,  we 
count  all  things  but  loss  and  dung  for  the  excellency  of  the 
knowledge  of  Christ  Jesus  our  Lord  :"  in  whose  wounds 
we  find  all  manner  of  consolation.  Neither  is  it  necessaryto 
seek  or  invent  any  other  means  of  being  reconciled  to  God, 
than  this  only  sacrifice,  once  offered,  by  which  believers 
are  made  perfect  for  ever.  This  is  also  the  reason  why  he 
was  called  by  the  angel  of  God,  Jesus,  that  is  to  say,  Sav- 
iour, because  he  should  save  his  people  from  their  sins. 

XXII.  Of  our  justification  through  faith  in  Jesus  Christ. 
We  believe  that  to  attain  the  true  knowledge  of  this 

great  mystery,  the  Holy  Ghost  kindleth  in  our  hearts  an 
upright  faith  which  embraces  Jesus  Christ,  with  all  his 
merits,  appropriates  him  and  seeks  nothing  more  besides 
him.  For  it  must  needs  follow,  either  that  all  things  which 
are  requisite  to  our  salvation  are  not  in  Jesus  Christ,  or 
if  all  things  are  in  him,  that  then  those  who  possess  Jesus 
Christ  through  faith,  have  compleat  salvation  in  him. 
Tnerefore  should  any  assert,  that  Christ  is  not  sufficient, 
but  that  something  more  is  required  besides  him,  would 
be  too  gross  a  bl.  sphemy  :  For  hence  it  would  follow, 
that  Christ  wtis  but  half  a  Saviour.  Therefore  we  justly 
say  with  Paul,  that  we  are  justified  by  faith  alone,  or  by 
faith  without  works.  However  to  speak  more  clearly,  we 
do  not  mean,  that  faith  itself  justifies  us,  for  it  is  only  an 
instrument  with  which  we  embrace  Christ  our  Righteous- 
ness :  But  Jesus  Christ  imputing  to  us  all  his  merits,  and 
so  many  holy  works  which  he  hath  done  for  us,  and  in  our 
stead,  is  our  Righteousness.  And  faith  is  an  instrument 
that  keeps  us  in  communion  with  him  in  all  his  benefits, 
which  when  become  ours,  are  more  than  sufficient  to  ac- 
quit us  of  our  sins. 

XXIII.  That  our  justification  consist  sin  the  forgiveness 
of  sin,  and  the  imputation  of  Christ's  obedience. 

We  believe  that  our  salvation  consists,  in  the  remission 
of  our  sins  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake,  and  that  therein  our 
righteousness  before  God  is  implied  :  As  David  and  Paul 
teach  us,  declaring  this  to  be  the  happiness  of  man,  that 
God  imputes  righteousness  to  him  without  works.  And 
the  same  .postle  saith,  that  we  are  justified  f re;  ly,  by  his 
grace  through  the  redemption  which  is  in  Jchus  Christ, 
And  therefore  we  always  hold  fust  this  foundation,  ^scrib- 
ing  all  the  glory  to  God,  humbling  ourselves  before  him, 


56  THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH. 

and  acknowledging  ourselves  to  be  such  as  we  really  are, 
without  presuming  to  trust  in  any  thing  in  ourselves  or 
in  any  merit  of  ours,  relying  and  resting  upon  the  obe- 
dience of  Christ  crucified  alone,  which  becomes  ours, 
when  we  believe  in  him  :  this  is  sufficient  to  cover  all  our 
iniquities,  and  to  give  us  confidence,  in  approaching  to 
God ;  freeing  the  conscience  of  fear,  terror  and  dread, 
without  following  the  example  of  our  first  father  Adam, 
who  trembling,  attempted  to  cover  himself  with  fig  leaves. 
And  verily  if  we  should  appear  before  God,  relying  on  our- 
selves or  on  any  other  creature,  though  never  so  little,  we 
should,  alas  !  be  consumed.  And  therefore  every  one 
must  pray  with  David  ;  Q  Lord  enter  not  into  judgment 
with  thy  servant :  For  in  thy  sight  shall  no  man  living 
be  justified. 

XXIV.  Ofmarfs  sanctification  and  good  works. 
We  believe  that  this  true  faith  being  wrought  in  man  by 
the  hearing  of  the  word  of  God,  and  the  operation  of  the 
Holy  Ghost,  doth  regenerate  and  make  him  a  new  man, 
causing  him  to  live  a  new  life,  and  freeing  him  from  the 
bondage  of  sin.  Therefore  it  is  so  far  from  being  true, 
that  this  justifying  faith  makes  men  remiss  in  a  pious  and 
holy  life,  that  on  the  contrary  without  it  they  would  never 
do  any  thing  out  of  love  to  God,  but  only  out  of  self-love 
or  fear  of  damnation.  Therefore  it  is  impossible  that  this 
holy  faith  can  be  unfruitful  in  man,  for  we  do  not  speak  of 
a  vain  faith,  but  of  such  a  faith  which  is  called  in  scripture, 
a  faith  that  workethby  love,  which  excites  man  tothe  prac- 
tice of  those  works,  which  God  has  commanded  in  his  word. 
Which  works  as  they  proceed  from  the  good  root  of  faith 
are  good  and  acceptable  in  the  sight  of  God,  for  as  much  as 
they  are  all  sanctified  by  his  grace :  Howbeit  they  are  of  no 
account  towards  our  justification.  Fork  is  by  faith  in 
Christ  that  we  are  justified,  even  before  we  do  good  works; 
otherwise  they  could  not  be  good  works,  any  more  than 
the  fruit  of  a  tree  can  be  good,  before  the  tree  itself  is 
good,  Therefore  we  do  good  works,  but  not  to  merit 
by  them  (for  what  can  we  merit)  nay,  we  are  beholden  to 
God  for  the  good  works  we  do,  and  not  he  to  us,  'Since  it 
is  h,-  that  worketh  in  us  both  to  will  and  to  do  of  his  good 
pleasure.  Let  us  therefore  attend  to  what  is  written, 
when  ye  shall  hav?>  don<>  all  those  things  which  are  com- 
manded you*  say,  we  arc  unprofitable  servants  :  we  have- 
done  that  which  was  our  duty  to  do.     In  the  mean  time- 


THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH.  5? 

we  do  not  deny,  that  God  rewards  good  works,  but  it  is 
through  his  grace  that  he  crowns  his  gifts.  Moreover 
though  we  do  good  works,  we  do  not  found  our  s^lv^tion 
upon  them,  for  we  can  do  no  work  but  what  is  polluted  by 
our  flesh,  and  also'  punishable  :  and  although  we  comd 
perform  such  works,  still  the  remembrance  of  one  sin  is 
sufficient  to  make  God  reject  them.  Thus  then  we 
should  always  be  in  doubt,  tossed  to  and  fro  without  any 
certainty,  and  our  poor  consciences  be  continually  vexed 
if  they  relied  not  on  the  merits  of  the  suffering  and  death 
of  our  Saviour. 

XXV.     Of  the  abolishing  of  the  ceremonial  law. 

We  believe  that  the  ceremonies  and  figures  of  the  law, 
ceased  at  the  coming  of  Christ,  and  that  all  the  shadows 
are  accomplished  :  so  that  the  use  of  them  must  be  abo- 
lished amongst  Christians,  yet  the  truth  and  substance  of 
them  remains  with  us  in  Jesus  Christ,  in  whom  they 
have  their  completion.  In  the  mean  time  we  still  use  the 
testimonies  taken  out  of  the  law  and  the  prophets  to  con- 
firm us  in  the  doctrine  of  the  gospel,  and  to  regulate  our 
life  in  all  honesty,  to  the  glory  of  God, according  to  his  will. 
XXVI.      Of  Christ's  intercession. 

We  believe  that  we  have  no  access  unto  God,  than 
alone  through  the  only  medic. tor  and  advocate  Jesus 
Christ,  the  righteous,  who  therefore  became  man,  having 
united  in  one  person  the  divine  and  human  natures,  thut 
we  men  might  have  access  to  the  divine  Majesty,  which 
access  would  otherwise  be  barred  against  us.  But  this 
Mediator  whom  the  Father  hath  appointed  between  him 
and  us,  ought  in  no  wise  to  affright  us  by  his  maiesty,  or 
cause  us  to  seek  another  according  to  our  Li  c\ .  For 
there  is  no  creature  either  in  heaven  or  on  earth,  who 
loveth  us  more  than  Jesus  Christ ;  who  though  he  was  in 
thr  form  of  God,  yet  made  himself  ef  no  reputation,  and 
took  ufion  him  the  form  of  a  man  and  of  a  servant  for  us, 
and  was  made  like  unto  his  brethren  in  all  things.  If 
then  we  should  seek  for  another  Mediator,  who  would 
be  Well  affected  towards  us,  whom  could  we  find,  who 
loved  us  more  than  he,  who  laid  down  his  life  for  us, 
even  when  we  were  his  enemies  ?  And  if  we  seek  for 
one  who  hath  power  and  majesty,  who  is  there,  that  hath 
so  much  of  both  as  he  who  sits  at  the  right  hand  of  his 
Father,  and- who  hath  all  power  in  heaven  and  on  earth  ? 


58  THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH. 

And  who  will  sooner  be  heard  than  the  own  well  beloved 
Son  of  God  ?  Therefore  it  was  only  through  diffidence, 
that  this  practice  of  dishonouring  instead  of  honouring  the 
saints,  was  introduced,  doing  that,  which  they  never  have 
done,  nor  required,  but  have  on  the  contrary  stedfastiy  re- 
jected  it  according  to  their  bounden  duty, as  appears  by  their 
writing.  Neither  must  we  plead  here  our  unworthincss  j 
for  the  meaning  is  not  that  we  should  offer  our  prayers  to 
God  on  account  of  our  own  worthiness,  but  omy  on  ac- 
count of  the  excellency  and  worthiness  of  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,  whose  righteousness  is  become  ours  by  faith. 
Therefore  the  apostle,  to  remove  this  foolish  fear  or 
rather  mistrust  from  us,  justly  saith,  that  Jesus  Christ 
was  made  like  unto  his  brethren  in  all  things,  that  he 
might  be  a  merciful  and  faithful  high  priest,  to  make  re* 
conciliation  for  the  sins  of  the  fieople.  For  in  that  he 
himself  hath  suffered,  being  tempted,  he  is  able  to  suc- 
cour them  that  are  temfited  and  further  to  encourage 
us,  he  adds,  seeing  then  that  we  have  a  great  high  priest, 
that  is  passed  into  the  heavens,  Jesus  the  Son  of  God,  let 
us  hold  fast  our  profession.  For  we  have  not  an  high 
priest  which  cannot  be  touched  with  the  feeling  of  our 
infirmities  ;  but  was  in  all  points  tempted  like  as  we  are, 
yet  without  sill.  Let  us  therefore  come  boldly  unto  the 
throne  of  grace,  that  we  may  obtain  mercy,  and  find 
grace  to  help  in  time  of  need.  The  same  apostle  saith, 
that  we  have  boldness,  to  enter  into  the  holiest,  by  the 
blood  of  Jesus  ;  let  us  draw  near  (saith  he)  with  a  true 
heart  in  full  assurance  of  faith,  &c.  Likewise,  Christ 
hath  an  unchangeable  priesthood,  wherefore  he  is  able 
also  to  save  them  to  the  uttermost,  that  come  unto  God 
by  him,  seeing  he  ever  liveth  to  make  intercession  for 
them.  What  more  can  be  required  ?  Since  Christ  him- 
self saith,  /  am  the  way  and  the  truth,  and  the  life,  no 
man  cometh  unto  the  Father  but  by  me.  To  what  pur- 
pose should  we  then  seek  another  advocate,  since  it  hath 
pleased  God,  to  give  us  his  own  Son  as  an  advocate?  Let 
us  not  forsake  him  to  take  another,  or  rather  to  seek  af- 
ter another,  without  ever  being  able  to  find  him  ;  For 
God  well  knew,  when  he  gave  him  to  us,  that  we  were 
sinners.  Therefore  according  to  the  command  of  Christ, 
we  call  upon  the  heavenly  Father  through  Jesus  Christ 
our  only  mediator,  as  we  are  taught  in  the  Lord's  prayer; 
being  assured  that  whatever  we  ask  of  the  Father  in  his 
name,  will  be  granted  us. 


THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH.  59 

XXVII.      Of  the    Catholic    Christian   Church. 

We  believe  unci  piotcss,  one  Catholic  or  universal 
church,  which  is  an  holy  congregation;  of  true  christian 
believers,  who  all  expecting  their  salvation  in  Jesus 
Christ,  being  washed  by  his  blood,  sanctified  and  sealed 
by  the  Holy  Ghost.  '  This  church  hath  been  from  the  be- 
ginning of  the  world,  and  will  be  to  the  €i;d  thereof; 
which  is  evident  from  this,  that  Christ  is  an  eternal  king, 
which  without  subjects  cannot  be  :  And  this  holy  church 
is  preserved  or  supported  by  God,  against  the  rage  of 
the  wlioie  world ;  though  she  sometimes  (for  a  while) 
appears  very  small,  and  in  the  eyes  of  men,  to  be  reduced 
to  nothing  :  As  during  the  perilous  reign  of  Achab,  the 
Lord  reserved  unto  him  seven  thousand  men,  who  had  not 
boived  their  knees  to  Baal.  Furthermore  this  holy  church 
is  not  confined,  bound  or  limited  to  a  certain  place,  or  to 
certain  persons,  but  is  spread'  and  ^dispersed  over  the 
whole  world,  and  yet  is  joined  and  uniTs^with  heart  and 
will,  by  the  power  of  faith-iri  one  and  the  same  spirit. 
XXVIII.  That  every  one  is  hound  to  join  himself 
io  the  true  church. 

We  believe,  since  this  holy  congregation  is  an  assem- 
bly of  those  who  are  saved,  and  that  out  of  it  their  is  no 
salvation,  that  no  person  of  whatsoever  state  or  condition 
he  may  be,  ought  to  withdraw  himself,  to  live  in  a  separate 
state  from  it ;  but  that  all  men  are  in  duty  bound  to  join 
and  unite  themselves  with  it,  maintaining  the  unity  of  the 
church,  submitting  themselves  to  the  doctrine  and  dis- 
cipline thereof,  bowing  their  necks  under  the  yoke  of  Je- 
sus Christ,  and  as  mutual  members  of  the  same  body, 
serving  to  the  edification  of  the  brethren  according  to  the 
talents  God  has  given  them.  And  that  this  may  be  the 
more  effectually  observed,  it  it  the  duty  of  all  believers, 
according  to  the  word  of  God,  to  separate  themselves 
from  all  those  who  do  not  belong  to  the  church,  and  to  join 
themselves  to  this  congregation,  wheresoever  God  hath 
established  it,  even  though  the  magistrates  and  the  edicts 
of  princes  were  against  it,  yea  though  they  should  suffer 
death  or  any  other  corporal  punishment.  Therefore  all 
those  who  separate  themselves  from  the  sume,  or  do  not 
join  themselves  to  it,  act  contrary  to  the  ordinance  of  God. 
[  XXIX.  Of  the  marks  of  the  true  churchy  and  wherein  she 
differs  from  the  false  church. 

We  believe,  that  we  ought  diligently  and  circumspectly 


60  THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH, 

to  discern  from  the  word  oi  God,  which  is  the  true  church, 
since  li  sects  which  are  in  tire  world  assume  to  themselves 
the  name  of  tne  church.  Bui  we  speak  not  here  of  hypo- 
crites, wiio  are  mix^d  in  the  church  with  the  good,  yet  are 
not  ol  tne  church,  though  i  xterru.liy  in  it :  But  we  say 
that  the  body  and  comniunion  oi  the  true  church  must  be 
distinguish)  d  from  ail  sects  who  call  themselves  the 
church.  Tne  marks  by  which  the  true  church  is  known 
are  these  :  If  the  pure  doctrine  of  the  gospel  is  preached 
therein  :  11  she  maintains  the  pure  administration  of  the' 
sacraments  as  instituted  by  Christ :  If  church  discipline 
is  exercised  in  punishing  of  sin  :  In  short,  if  all  things  are 
managed  according  to  the  pure  word  of  God,  all  things 
contrary  thereto  rejected  ;  and  Jesus  Christ  acknowledged 
as  the  only  head  of  the  church.  Hence  the  true  church 
may  certainly  be  known,  from  which  no  man  has  a  right  to 
separate  himself.  With  respect  to  those  who  are  mem- 
bers of  the  church,  they  maybe  known  by  the  niaiks  of 
christians,  namely,  by  faith  ;  and  when  they  have  received 
Jesus  Christ  the  only  Saviour,  avoid  sin,  follow  after  righ- 
teousness, love  the  true  God  and  tncii  neighbour,  neither 
turn  aside  to  the  right  or  left,  and  crucify  the  flesh  with 
the  works  thereof.  But  this  is  not  to  be  understood,  as 
if  there  did  not  remain  in  them  great  infirmities  ;  but  they 
light  against  them  through  the  spirit,  all  the  days  of  their 
life,  continually  taking  their  refuge  to  the  blood,  death, 
passion  and  obedience  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  uin  whom* 
they  have  remission  of  sins,  tnrough  faith  in  him."  As 
for  the  false  church,  she  ascribes  more  power  and  author- 
ity to  herself  and  her  ordinances,  than  to  the  word  of  God, 
and  will  not  submit  herself  to  the  yoke  of  Christ :  Neither 
does  she  administer  the  sacraments  as  appointed  by  Christ! 
in  his  word,  but  adds  to  and  takes  from  them  as  she  thinks 
proper;  she  reiieth  more  upon  men  than  upon  Christ  jfl 
and  persecutes  those  who  live  holily  according  to  the  word 
of  God,  and  rebuke  her  for  her  errors,  covetousness  and 
idolatry.  These  two  churches  are  easily  known  and  dis- 
tinguished from  each  other. 

XXX.  Concerning  the  government  oJ\  and  offices  in 
the  Church. 
We  believe,  that  this  true  church  must  be  governed 
by  that  spiritual  policy,  which  our  Lord  hath  taught  us  in 
his  word  ;  namely,  tin  t  there  must  be  ministers  or  pastors 
to  preach  the  word  of  God,  and  to  administer  the   sacra- 


THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH.  61 

ments,  also  elders  and  deacons,  who,  together  with  tl?e 

pastors,  form  the  council  of  the  church  :  Thai  by  these 
means  the  true  religion  may  be  preserved,  and  the  true 
doctrine  everywhere  propagated,  likewise  transgressors 
punished  and  restrained  by  spiriiual  means  ;  also  that  the 
poor  and  distressedmaybe  relievedand  comforted,  accord- 
ing to  their  necessities.  By  these  means  every  thing  will 
be  carried  on  in  the  church  with  good  order  and  decency, 
when  faithful  men  are  chosen,  according  to  the  rule  pre. 
scribed  by  St.  Paul  in  his  epistle  to  Timothy. 

XXXI.    Of  the  ministers,  elders,  and  deacons. 

We  believe  that  the  ministers  of  God's  -word,  and  the 
elders  and  deacons,  ought  to  be  chosen  to  their  respective- 
offices  by  a  lawful  election  by  the  church,  with  calling  upon 
the  name  of  the  Lord,  and  in  that  order  which  the  word  of 
God  teacheth.  Therefore  every  one  must  take  heed,  not. 
to  intrude  himself  by  indecent  means,  but  is  bound  to  wait 
till  it  shall  please  God  to  call  him  ;  that  he  may  have  testi- 
mony of  his  calling,  and  be  certain  and  assured  that  it  is  of 
the  Lord.  As  for  the  ministers  of  God's  word,  they  have 
equally  the  same  "power  and  authority  wheresoever  they 
are,  as  they  are  all  ministers  of  Christ,  the  only  universal 
Bishop,  and  the  only  head  of  the  church.  Moreover  that 
this  holy  ordinance  of  God  may  not  be  violated  or  slighted, 
we  say  that  every  one  ought  to  esteem  the  ministers  of 
God's  word,  and  the  elders  of  the  church,  very  highly  for 
their  works'  sake,  and  be  at  peace  with  them  without  mur- 
muring, strife  or  contention,  as  much  as  possible. 

XXXII.   Of  the  order  and  discipline  of  the  chare  h. 

In  the  mean  time  we  believe,  though  it  is  useiui  and  be- 
neficial, that  those  who  are  rulers  of  the  church  institute 
and  establish  certain  ordinances  among  themseives  for 
maintaining  the  body  of  the  church  ;  yet  they  ought  stu- 
diously to  take  care,  that  they  do  not  depart  iron  those 
things,  which  Christ  our  only  master  hath  instituted.  And 
therefore  we  reject  all  human  inventions,  and  all  laws 
which  man  would  introduce  in  the  worship  of  God  there- 
by to  bind  and  compel  the  conscience,  in  any  manner 
whatever.  Therefore  we  admit  only  of  that,  which  tenas  to 
nourish  and  preserve  concord,  i,i>a  u;  ity,  and  to  keep  all 
men  in  obedience  to  God.  For  this  purpose,  exconimuni- 
caticn  orchurch  disciplineis  requisite, with  the  several  cjr- 
tumstances  belong  ing  to  it,  according  to  the  word  of  God 

F 


••i  THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH. 

XXXIII.    Of  the  sacraments. 

We  believe,  that  our  gracious  God,  on  account  of  our 
•weakness  and  infirmities,  hath  ordained  the  sacraments  for 
us,  thereby  to  seal  untoushis  promises, and  to  be  pledges  of 
the  good  will  and  grace  of  God  toward  us, and  edso  to  nour- 
ish and  strengthen  our  faith;  which  he  hath  joined  to  the 
word  of  the  gospel,  the  better  to  present  to  our  senses, 
both  that  which  he  signifies  to  us  by  his  word,  and  that  . 
which  he  works  inwardly  in  our  hearts,  thereby  assuring 
and  confirming  in  us  the  salvation  which  he  imparts  to  us. 
For  they  are  visible  signs  and  seals  of  an  inward  and  invi- 
sible thing,  by  means  whereof,  God  worketh  in  us  by  the 
power  of  the  Holy  Ghost.  Therefore  the  signs  are  not  in 
vain  or  insignificant,  so  as  to  deceive  us.  For  Jesus 
Christ  is  the  true  object  presented  by  them,  without  whom 
they  would  be  of  no  moment.  Moreover  we  are  satisfied 
with  the  number  of  sacraments  which  Christ  our  Lord 
hath  instituted,  which  are  two  only,  namely,  the  Sacrament 
of  baptism  and  the  holy  supper  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

XXXIV.   Of  holy  bafitism. 

We  believe  and  confess  that  Jesus  Christ,  who  is  the 
end  of  the  law,  hath  made  an  end  by  the  shedding  of  his 
blood,  of  all  other  sheddings  of  blood,  which  men  could  or 
would  make  as  a  propitiation  or  satisfaction  for  sin  :  And 
that  he  having  abolished  circumcision,  which  was  done 
with  blood,  hath  instituted  the  sacrament  of  baptism  in- 
stead thereof ;  by  which  we  are  received  into  the  church 
of  God,  and  separated  from  all  other  people  and  strange 
religions,  that  we  may  wholly  belong  to  him  whose  ensign 
and  banner  we  bear  :  And  serves  as  a  testimony  unto  us, 
that  he  will  for  ever  be  our  gracious  God  and  Father. 
Therefore  he  has  commanded  all  those  who  are  his,  to  be 
baptised  with  pure  water,  "  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and 
of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost :"  Thereby  signifying 
to  us,  that  as  water  washeth  away  the  filth  of  the  body, 
when  poured  upon  it,  and  is  seen  on  the  body  of  the  bap- 
tised, when  sprinkled  upon  him  ;  so  doth  the  blood  of 
Christ,  by  the  power  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  internally  sprinkle 
the  soul,  and  cleanse  it  from  its  sins,  and  regenerate  us 
from  children  of  wrath  unto  children  of  God.  Not  that 
this  is  effected  by  the  external  water, 'but  by  the  sprinkling 
of  the  precious  blood  of  the  Son  of  God  ;  who  is  our  red 
sea,  through  which  we  must  pass,  to  escape  the  tyranny  of 


THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH. 

Pharaoh,  that  is  the  devil,  and  to  enter  into  the  spiritual 
land  of  Canaan.     Therefore  the  ministers,  on  their  part, 
administer  the  sacrament,    and  that  which  is  visible,   hist 
our  Lord  giveth  that  which  is  signified  by  the  saericment, 
namely,  the  gifts  and  invisible  grace,  washing  deknsmg 
and  purging  our  souls  of  all  filth  and  ui.vightcous. 
renewing  our  hearts,   and  filling  them  with  all  comfort ; 
giving  unto  us  a  true  assurance  of  his  fatherly  goodness, 
putting  on  us  the  new  man,  and  putting  off  the   old  man 
with  all  his  deeds  :  Therefore  we  believe,  that  every  man 
who  is  earnestly  studious  of  obtaining  life  eternal,  ought 
to  be  but  once  baptised  with  this  only  baptism^  without 
ever  repeating  the  same  :  since  we  cannot  be  born  twice, 
Neither  doth  this  baptism  only  avail  us  at  the  time  when 
the  water  is  poured  upon  us,  and  received  by  us,  but  ateo 
through  the  whole  course  of  our  life ;  therefore  we  detest 
the  error  of  the  anabaptists,  who  are  not  content  with  the 
one  only  baptism  they  have  once  received,  and  moreover 
condemn  the  baptism  of  the  infants  of  unbelievers,  whom  we 
believe  ought  to  be  baptised^and  sealed  with  the  sign  oifthe 
covenant,  as  thechiidrenin  Israel  formerly  were  circumcis- 
ed, upon  the  same  promises  which  are  made  unto  our  chil- 
dren. And  indeed  Christ  shed  his  blood  n@  liss  for  the  v/ash- 
ing  of  the  children  of  the  faithful  than  foiv-dult  persons  ; 
and  therefore  they  ought  to  receive  the  sign  and  sacrament 
of  that  which  Christ  hath  done  for  them ;  and  as  the  Lord 
commanded  in  the  law,  thatthey  should  be  made  partakers  of 
the  sacrament  of  Christ's  suffering  and  death,  shortly  after 
they  were  born,  by  offering  for  them  a  lamb,  which  was  a 
sacrament  of  Jesus  Christ.    Moreover  wrhat  circumcision 
was  to  the  Jews,  that  baptism  is  to  our  children.    And  for 
this  reason  Paul  calls  baptism  the  circumcision  of  Christ. 
XXXV.   Of  the  holy  svjijier  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 
We  believe  and  confess  that  our  Saviour  Jesus  Christ 
did  ordain  and  institute  the  sacrament  of  the  holy  supper, 
to  nourish  and  support  those  whom  he  hath  already  re- 
generated and  incorporated  into  his  family,   which  is  his 
church.     Now  those  who  are  regenerated,  have  in  them  a 
two-fold  life,   the  one  corporal  and  temporal,  which  they 
have  from  the  first  birth,  and  is  common  to  all  men  :  The 
other  spiritual  and  heavenly,  which  is  given  them  in  their 
second  birth,  which  is  effected  by  the  word  of  the  gospel, 
in  the  communion  of  the  body  of  Christ ;  and  this  life  is 
not  common,  but  is  peculiar  to  God's  elect.   In  like  man- 


64  THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH. 

ner  God  hath  given  us,  for  the  support  of  the  bodily  and 
earthly  life,  earthly  and  common  bread,  which  is  subser- 
vient thereto,  arid  is  common  to  all  men  even  as  life  itself. 
But  for  the  support  of  the  spiritual  and  heavenly  life,  which 
believers  have,  he  hath  sent  a  living-  bread  which  descend- 
ed from  heaven,  namely  Jesus  Christ,  who  nourishes  and 
strengthens  the  spiritual  life  of  believers,  when  they  eat 
him,  that  is  to  say,  when  they  apply  and  receive  him  by 
faith  in  the  spirit.  Christ  that  he  might  represent  unto 
us  this  spiritual  and  heavenly  bread,  hath  instituted  an 
earthly  and  visible  bread,  as  a  sacrament  of  his  body,  and 
wine  as  a  sacrament  of  his  blood,  to  testify  by  them  unto 
us,  that  as  certainly  as  we  receive  and  hold  this  sacrament 
in  our  hands,  and  eat  and  drink  the  same  with  our  mouths, 
by  which  our  life  is  afterwards  nourished  ;  that  we  also  do 
as  certainly  receive  by  faith  (which  is  the  hand  and  mouth 
of  our  soul)  the  true  body  and  blood  of  Christ  our  only 
Saviour  in  our  souls,  for  the  support  of  our  spiritual  life. 
Now  as  it  is  certain  and  beyond  all  doubt, that  Jesus  Christ 
ha&  not  enjoined  to  us  the  use  of  his  sacraments  in  vain, 
so  he  works  in  uC,  all  what  he  represents  to  us  by  these 
holy  signs,  thougn  the  manner  surpasses  our  understand- 
ing, and  canno%  be  comprehended  by  us,  as  the  opera- 
tions of  the  Holy  Ghost  are  hidden  and  incomprehensible. 
In  the  mean  time  we  err  not  when  we  say,  that  that  which 
is  eat  and  drank  by'  us  is  the  proper  and  natural  body,  and 
the  proper  blood  of  Christ.  But  the  manner  of  our  par- 
taking of  the  same,  is  not  by  the  mouth  but  by  the  spirit 
through  faith.  Thus  then,  though  Christ  always  sits  at 
the  right  hand  of  his  Father  in  the  heavens,  yet  therefore 
doth  he  not  cease  to  make  us  partakers  of  himself  by  faith. 
This  feast  is  a  spiritual  table,  at  which  Christ  communi- 
cates himself  with  all  his  benefits  to  us,  and  gives  us  there 
to  enjoy  both  himself,  and  the  merits  of  his  sufferings  and 
death,  nourishing,  strengthening  and  comforting  our  poor 
comfortless  souls,  by  the  eating  of  his  flesh,  quickenint 
and  refreshing  them  by  the  drinking  of  his  blood.  Fur- 
ther though  the  sacraments  are  connected  with  the  thin* 
signified,  nevertheless  both  are  not  received  by  all  men 
The  ungodly  indeed  receives  the  sacrament  to  his  condem« 
nation,  but  he  doth  not  receive  the  truth  of  the  sacrament: 
As  Judas  and  Simon  the  sorcerer  both  indeed  received 
the  sacrament,  but  not  Christ,  who  was  signified  by  it,  of 
whom  believers  only  are  made  partakers.     Lastly,  we  re- 


THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH.  65 

ceive  this  holy  $acran<ej-t  in  the  assembly  of  the  people  of 
God,  with  humility  and  reverence,  keeping  up  amongst  us 
a  holy  remembrance  of  the  death  of  Christ  our  S ■■viour, 
with  thanksgiving:  Making  there  confcafiioi  of  our  faith, 
and  of  the  christian  religion.  Therefore  no  one  ought  to 
come  to  this  table,  without  having  previously  rightly  ex- 
amined himself;  lest  eating  of  this  bre^d  and  drinking  of 
this  cup,  he  eat  and  drink  his  own  damnation.  In  a  word, 
we  are  excited  by  the  use  of  this  holy  sacrament,  to  a  fer- 
vent love  towards  God,  and  our  neighbour.  Therefore 
we  reject  all  mixtures  and  damnable  inventions-  which 
men  have  added  unto,  and  blended  with  the  sacra-nints, 
as  profanations  of  them  :  And  affirm  that  we  ought  to 
rest  satined  with  the  ordinance  which  Christ  and  his  apes- 
tles  have  taught  us,  and  that  we  must  speak  of  them  in; 
the  same  manner  as  they  have  spoke. 

XXXVI.  Cf  Magistrates. 
We  believe  that  our  gracious  God,  because  of  the  de- 
pravity of  mankind,  hath  appointed  kings,  princes  and 
magistrates,  willing  th\t  the  world  should  be  governed  by 
certain  laws  and  polices;  to  the  end  that  the  dissoluteness 
of  men  might  be  restrained,  and  all  things  carried  on 
among  men  with  good  order  and  decency.  For  this  pur- 
pose he  hath  invested  the  magistracy  with  the  sword,  for 
the  fiunishment  of  evil  doers,  and  for  the  protection  of 
them  that  do  well.  And  their  office  is,  not  only  to  have 
regard  unto,  and  watch  for  the  welfare  of  the  civil  state, 
but  also  to  protect  the  holy  church  service,  and  to  pre- 
vent and  extripate  all  idolatry  and  false  worship,  to  destroy 
the  kingdom  of  antichrist,  to  promote  the  kingdom  of 
Jesus  Christ,  a»d  to  take  care,  that  the  word  of  the  gos- 
pel be  preached  every  where,  that  God  may  be  honored 
and  worshipped  by  every  one,  as  he  commands  in  his  word- 
Moreover  it  is  the  bounden  duty  of  every  one,  of  what 
state,  quality  or  condition  soever  he  may  be,  tc  subject 
himself  to  the  magistrates,  to  pay  tribute,  to  shew  due 
honor  and  respect  to  them,  and  to  obey  them  in  all  things 
which  are  not  repugnant  to  the  word  of  God  ;  to  pray  for 
them  in  their  prayers,  that  God  may  rule  and  guide  them 
in  all  their  ways,  and  that  we  may  lead  a  quiet  and  peacea- 
ble life  in  all  godliness  and  honesty.  Wherefore  we  de- 
test the  anabaptists  and  other  seditious  people,  and  in  gen- 
eral all  those  who  reject  the  higher  powers  and  magis- 
F  2 


66  THE  CONFESSION  OF  FAITH. 

trates,  and  would  subvert  justice,  introducing  a  commu 
nion  of  goods,  and  confound  that  decency  and  good  order  I 
which  God  hath  established  among  men. 

XXXVII.      Of  the  last  judgment. 

Finally  we  believe,  according  to  the  word  of  God,  when 
the  time  appointed  by  the  Lord  (which  is  unknown  to  all 
creatures)  is  come,  and  the  number  of  the  elect  complete, 
that  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  will  come  from  Heaven,  cor- 
porally and  visible,  as  he  ascended,  with  great  glory  and 
majesty,  to  declare  himself  judge  of  the  quick  and  the 
dead  ;  burning  this  old  world  with  fire  and  flame,  to 
cleanse  it.  And  then  all  men  will  personally  appear  be- 
fore this  great  judge,  both  men  and  women,  and  children, 
;that  have  been  from  the  beginning  of  the  world  to  the  end 
•thereof,  being  summoned  by  the  voice  of  the  archangel, 
and  by  the  sound  of  the  trumpet  of  God.  For  all  the 
dead  shall  be  raised  out  of  the  earth,  and  their  souls  join- 
ed and  united  with  their  proper  bodies,  in  which  they  for- 
merly lived.  As  for  those  who  shall  then  be  living,  they 
shall  not  die  as  the  others,  but  be  changed  in  the  twink- 
ling of  an  eye,  and  from  corruptible,  become  incorruptible. 
Then  the  books  (that  is  to  say  the  consciences)  shall  be 
opened,  and  the  dead  judged  according  to  what  they  shall 
have  done  in  this  world,  wether  it  be  good  or  evil.  Nay 
men  shall  give  an  account  of  every  idle  word  they  have 
spoken,  which  the  world  only  counts  amusement  and  jest: 
And  then  the  secrets  and  hypocrisy  of  men  shall  be  dis- 
closed and  laid  open  before  all.  And  therefore  the  con- 
sideration of  this  judgment  is  justly  terrible  and  dreadful 
to  the  wicked  and  ungodly,  but  most  desirable  and  com- 
fortable to  the  righteous  and  elect :  because  then  their 
full  deliverance  shall  be  perfected,  and  there  they  shall 
receive  the  fruits  of  their  labour  and  trouble  which  they 
have  borne.  Their  innocence  shall  be  known  to  all,  and 
they  shall  see  the  terrible  vengeance  wnich  God  shall  ex- 
ecute on  the  wicked,  who  most  cruelly  persecuted,  op- 
pressed and  tormented  them  in  this  world  ;  and  who  shall 
be  convicted  by  the  testimony  of  their  own  consciences, 
and  become  immortal,  but  for  this  purpose,  to  be  tor- 
mented in  that  everlasting  fire,  which  is  prepared  for  the 
devil  and  his  angels.  But  on  the  contrary  the  faithful  and 
elect  shall  be  crowned  with  glory  and  honor  ;  and  the  Son 
of  God  will  confess  their  names  before  God  his  Father, 


THE  LITURGY.  67 

and  his  elect  angels  ;  all  tears  shall  be  wiped  from  their 
eyes,  and  their  c;.use,  which  is  now  condemned  by  many 
judges  and  magistrates,  as  heretical  and  impious,  will 
then  be  known  to  be  the  cause  of  the  Son  of  God.  And 
for  a  gracious  reward  the  Lord  will  cause  them  to  possess 
such  a  glory,  as  never  entered  into  the  heart  of  man  to 
conceive.  Therefore  we  expect  that  great  day  with  a 
most  ardent  desire,  to  the  end  that  we  may  fully  enjoy 
the  promises  of  God  in  Christ  Jesus  our  Lord.  Amen. 
Even  so  come  Lord  Jesus.  Rev.  xxii.  20. 

End  of  the  Confession  of  Faith, 


THE  LITURGY 

OF    THE 

REFORMED  CHURCH  IN  NETHERLAND  > 

OR,    THE    FORMS    USED    THEREIN    IN    PUBLIC    WORSHIP, 

I.   Of  Public  Prayer. — II.    Of  the  Administration  of  the 
Holy    Sacraments, — III.   Of  the  Exercise   of  Church 
Discipline. — IV.    Of  the    Ordination   of  Church    Offi- 
cers.— V.   Of  the  Celebration  of  Marriage. — VI.   Of 
Comforting  the  Sick. 
Christian  Prayers,  to  be  used  in  the  Assembly  of  the 
Faithful,  and  on  other  occasions. 
A  Prayer  on  the  Lord's  day,  before  sermon. 

f\  eternal  God,  and  most  merciful  Father,  we  hum- 
^-^  bly  prostrate  ourselves  before  thy  high  majesty,  a- 
gainst  which  we  have  so  often  and  grievously  offended  ; 
and  acknowledge,  if  thou  shouldst  enter  into  judgment 
with  us,  that  we  have  deserved  nothing  but  eternal  death  : 
for  besides  that  we  all  are  by  original  sin,  unclean  in  thy 
sight  and  children  of  wrath,  conceived  in  sin  and  brought 
forth  in  iniquity,  whereby  all  manner  of  evil  lusts,  striv- 
ing against  thee  and  our  neighbour,  dwell  within  us  ;  we 
have  also  indeed,  frequently  and  without  end,  transgressed 
thy  precepts  neglecting  what  thou  hast  commanded  us, 
and  done  what  thou  hast  expressly  forbidden  us.  We 
have  strayed  like  sheep,  and  have  greatly  offended  against 
thee,  which  we  acknowledge,  and  are  heartily  sorry  for  ; 
nay  we  confess  to  our  shame,  and  to  the  praise  of  thy  mer- 
cy towards  us,  that  our  sins  are  more  than  the  hairs  of 


68  THE  LITURGY. 

our  head,  and  that  we  are  indebted  ten  thousand  talents, 
but  not  able  to  pay.  Wherefore  we  are  not  worthy  to  be 
called  thy  children  ;  nor  to  lift  up  our  eyes  towards  Hea- 
ven, to  pour  out  our  prayers  before  thee.  Nevertheless 
O  Lord  God,  and  merciful  Father,  knowing  that  thou 
dost  not  desire  the  death  of  a  sinner,  but  that  he  may  turn 
from  his  wickedness  and  live  ;  and  that  thy  mercy  is  infi- 
nite, which  thou  shewest  unto  those  who  return  to  thee  ; 
we  heartily  call  upon  thee,  trusting  in  our  Mediator  Jesus 
Christ,  who  is  that  Lamb  of  God,  that  taketh  away  the 
sins  of  the  world,  and  we  beseech  thee,  to  commiserate 
our  infirmity,  forgiving  us  all  our  sins  for  Christ's  sake  : 
wash  us  in  the  pure  fountain  of  his  blood,  that  we  may 
become  clean  and  white  as  snow :  Cover  our  nakedness 
with  his  innocence  and  righteousness,  for  the  glory  of 
thy  name's  sake  :  clear  our  understanding  of  all  blindness, 
and  our  hearts  of  all  hardness  and  pride.  Open  the  mouth 
of  thy  servant  at  present,  and  replenish  him  with  thy  wis- 
dom and  knowledge,  that  he  may  purely  and  confidently 
set  forth  thy  word  ;  prepare  also  our  hearts,  that  we  may 
hear,  understand  and  keep  the  same  :  write  thy  laws  (ac- 
cording to  thy  promise)  in  the  tables  of  our  hearts,  and 
strengthen  us  to  deiight  and  walk  in  the  same,  to  the 
praise  and  glory  of  thy  name,  and  to  the  edification  of  thy 
church.  O  gracious  Father,  we  ask  for,  and  desire  all 
these  things  in  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ,"  who  hath  taught 
us  thus  to  pray, 

Our  Father,  &c. 

A  Prayer  to  be  used  on  the  Lord's  day  after  sermon. 

Almighty  and  merciful  God,  we  acknowledge  in  our- 
selves, and  confess  before  thee,  as  the  truth  is,  that 
we  are  not  worthy  to  lift  up  our  eyes  towards  Heaven  and 
to  present  our  prayers  before  thee,  if  thou  should  respect 
our  merits  and  worthiness :  for  our  consciences  accuse 
us,  and  our  sins  bear  witness  against  us  ;  we  also  know, 
that  thou  art  a  righteous  judge,  punishing  the  sins  of 
those  who  transgress  thy  commandments.  But,  O  Lord, 
since  thou  hast  commanded  us  to  call  upon  thee  in  all 
times  of  necessity,  and  hast  of  thine  ineffable  mercy  pro- 
mised to  hear  our  prayers,  not  because  of  our  merits 
(which  are  none)  but  for  the  merits  of  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,  whom  thou  hast  appointed  to  be  our  Mediator  and 


THE  LITURGY.  69 

Advocate  :  wherefore  we  forsake  all  other  help,  and  take 
our  refuge  to  thy  mercy  alone. 

Especially  O  Lord,  besides  the  innumerable  benefits 
which  thou  shewest  to  all  mankind  in  general  on  earth, 
thou  hast  in  particular  bestowed  manifold  favours  on  us, 
which  we  are  not  capable  to  comprehend  or  express  :  for 
thou  hast  delivered  us  from  the  woeful  slavery  of  the  de- 
vil, and  all  idolatry,  wherein  we  were  held,  and  hast 
brought  us  to  the  light  of  thy  truth,  and  to  die  knowledge 
of  thy  Holy  Gospel.  On  the  contrary  we  have  by  our  in- 
gratitude been  regardless  of  these  thy  benefits,  we  are 
departed  from  thee  and  have  followed  our  own  devices, 
not  honouring  thee  as  was  our  bounden  duty  to  do.  Thus 
have  we,  O  Lord,  grievously  sinned,  and  highly  offended 
thee,  and  can  expect  nothing  else  than  everlasting  death 
and  damnation,  if  thou  shouldst  deal  with  us  according  to 
our  deserts.  Yea  we  also  perceive,  O  Lord,  by  the  chas- 
tisement, which  thou  daily  art  inflicting  on  us,  that  thou 
art  justly  displeased  with  us.  For  since  thou  art  just, 
thou  wilt  punish  no  man  without  cause,  and  we  also  see 
thine  hand  stretched  out,  further  to  punish  us.  But 
though  thou  didst  punish  us  more  severely  than  thou  hast 
hitherto  done,  nay  though  all  the  plagues  fell  upon  us, 
wherewith  thou  didst  visit  the  sins  of  thy  people  Israel, 
we  must  still  confess  that  thou  wouldst  do  us  no  injustice. 
But,  O  Lord,  thou  art  our  God,  and  we  are  but  dust  and 
ashes  :  thou  art  our  Creator,  and  we  are  thy  handy  work  : 
thou  art  our  Shepherd,  and  we  are  thy  sheep  :  thou  art 
our  Redeemer,  and  we  are  those  whom  thou  hast  redeem- 
ed. Thou  art  our  Father,  and  we  are  thy  children  and 
heirs.  Therefore  do  not  punish  us  in  thine  anger,  but 
chastise  us  mercifully,  and  preserve  that  work  which  thou 
hast  of  thy  mercy  begun  in  us,  that  the  whole  world  may 
know  and  acknowledge  thee  to  be  our  God  and  Saviour. 
Thy  people  Israel  have  frequently  offended  thee,  and  thou 
hast  justly  punished  them,  but  as  oft  as  they  turned  them- 
selves again  to  thee,  thou  didst  always  mercifully  receive 
them  into  favour.  And  though  their  sins  and  transgres- 
sions were  never  so  great,  thou  didst  always  avert  thy 
wrath  and  punishment  prepared  for  them  by  reason  of  the 
covenant  which  thou  hadst  made  with  thy  servants  Abra- 
ham, Isaac,  and  Jacob,  so  that  thou  never  hast  refused  to> 
hear  the  prayers  of  thy  people.  And  we  have  of  thy  mer- 
cy even  that  same  covenant,  which  thou  hast  erected  in 


10  THE  LITURGY. 

the  hand  of  Jesus  Christ  our  Mediator  between  thee  and 
all  believers  :  nay  it  is  now  more  glorious  and  efficacious, 
since  Christ  hath  ratified  and  confirmed  the  same  by  his 
holy  suffering  and  death,  and  entrance  into  his  glory. 
Therefore,  O  Lord,  forsaking  ourselves,  and  all  human 
assistance,  we  fly  for  succour  to  this  blessed  covenant  of 
grace,  by  means  whereof  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  (having 
offered  his  body  once  on  the  cross  as  a  perfect  sacrifice 
for  us)  hath  reconciled  us  with  thee  for  ever.  Therefore, 
O  Lord,  look  upon  the  face  of  thine  anointed  and  not  our 
sins,  that  thine  anger  may  Le  appeased  by  his  intercession. 
And  cause  thy  face  to  shine  on  us  to  our  joy  and  salvation. 
Take  us  henceforth  in  thy  hojy  guidance  and  protection, 
and  govern  us  with  thy  holy  Spirit,  who  daily  more  and 
more  mortifying  our  flesh  with  all  its  lust,  renews  us  to 
a  better  life,  and  produces  in  us  fruits  of  true  faith,  that 
hereby  thy  name  may  be  glorified  and  praised  to  all  eter- 
nity, and  that  we  despising  all  transitory  things  may  with 
an  ardent  desire  fix  our  thoughts  only  on  things  heavenly. 
And  in  as  much  as  it  is  thy  pleasure  that  we  should 
pray  for  all  mankind,  we  beseech  thee,  to  extend  thy 
blessings  on  the  doctrine  of  thy  holy  Gospel,  that  it  may 
be  preached  and  accepted  every  where,  that  the  whole 
world  may  be  filled  with  thy  saving  knowledge,  that  the 
ignorant  may  be  converted,  the  weak  strengthened,  that 
every  one,  not  only  in  word,  but  also  in  deed,  may  magni- 
fy and  sanctify  thy  holy  name.  Send  forth  for  this  end, 
faithful  labourers  in  thy  harvest — And  also  replenish 
them  with  thy  grace,  that  they  may  faithfully  serve  before 
thee.  On  the  contrary  utterly  destroy  all  false  teachers, 
ravenous  wolves,  and  hirelings,  who  seek  their  own  honor 
and  advantage,  and  not  the  glory  of  thy  holy  name  only, 
nor  the  welfare  and  salvation  of  souls.  Be  also  pleased 
graciously  to  preserve  and  govern  all  thy  christian  church- 
es, spread  over  the  face  of  the  earth;  in  unity  of  true 
faith,  and  in  Godliness  of  life,  that  thy  kingdom  may  daily 
increase,  and  that  of  satan  be  destroyed,  till  thy  kingdom 
is  perfected  when  thou  shalt  be  all  in  all. 

Particularly  we  pray  for  these  United  States  of  Ameri- 
ca ;  keep  them  under  thy  holy  protection  ;  prosper  them 
in  their  agriculture,  manufactures,  commerce  and  litera- 
ture ;  and  let  their  civil  and  religious  rights  be  preserved 
inviolate  to  the  latest  posterity. 

Bless  and  long  preserve  thy  servant,  the  President  of 


THE  LITURGY.  71 

the  United  States.    Bless  the  Vice  President ;  the  Senate 
and  house  of  Representatives    in  congress    assembled. 
Bless  all  placed  in  authority  throughout  the  states,  and 
especially  in  the  state  wherein  we  reside  ;  the  governor 
of  the  state,  the  magistrates,  and  all   others  entrusted 
with  powers,  either  legislative  or  executive.— Replenish 
them  all  with  thy  grace  and  heavenly  gifts,  each  in  his  re- 
spective calling  and  state,  wherein  thou  has!  placed  him, 
that  they  may  wisely  govern,  and  strenuously  protect  the 
people,  vhjmthou  hast  committed  to  their  care,  faithful- 
ly defend  thy  worship  and  rightly  administer  justice  among 
the  people  :  preside  with  thy  holy   Spirit  in  their  assem- 
blies, that  in  all  cases  they  may  resoive  nothing  but  what 
is  good  and  becoming,  and  let  the  laws  be  happiiy  execut- 
ed ;  that  these   United    States  being  preserved  trom  all 
enemies,  the  evil  doers  punished,  and  the  just  protected, 
thy  name  thereby  may  be  praised,  ar.d  the  kingelom  of  the 
King   of  Kings,  Christ   Jesus,  promoted  ;  arid  that  we 
may  lead  acmiet  and  peaceable  life  in  ail  godliness  and  ho- 
nesty.    Moreover  we  pray  for  our  brethren,  who  are  un- 
der persecution  or  tyranny  ;  comfort  them  with  thy  holy 
Spirit,  and  mercifully  deliver  them  :  suffer  not  thy  church 
wholly  to  be  destroy  eel,  nor  the  remembrance  of  thy  name 
to  be  abolished  from  the  face  of  the  earth,  lest  the  enemies 
of  thy  truth  triumph  to  the  dishonouring  and  blaspheming 
of  thy  name.    But  if  it  is  thy  divine  will,  that  the  suffering 
christians,  should  elie  for  the  glory  of  thy  name,  and  by 
their  death  witness  unto  the  truth,  comfort  them  in  their 
sufferings,  that  they  considering  them  as  coming  from  thy 
fatherly  hand,  may  therefore  doing  thy  will,  remain  sted- 
fast,  whether  in  life  or  death  ;  to  thy   glory,  to  the  edifi- 
caioii  of  thy  church,  and  to  their  salvation.    We  likewise 
beseech  thee,  for  all  those  whom  thou  dost  afflict,  with 
proverty,  imprisonment,  sickness  of  body,  or  trouble  of 
mind,  comfort  them  all,  O  Lord,  according  to   their  se- 
veral necessities.      Grant  that  their   chastisement  may 
bring  them  to  the  knowledge  of  their  sins,  and  to  an  a- 
mendment  of  their  lives.     Give  them  also  firm  patience, 
alleviate  their  sufferings,  and  finally  deliver  them,  that 
they  may  rejoice  in  thy  goodness,  and  eternally  praise 
thy  name. 

And,  O  Lord,  take  us,  together  with  all  that  belongs  to, 
or  concerns  us,  in  thy  keeping.  Grant  that  we  may  live 
in  our  respective  callings  according  to  thy  will,  and  so  use 


72  THE  LITURGY. 

the  gifts  which  we  receive  of  thy  blessing:,  that  they  may 
not  impede,  but  rather  further  us  to  life  eternal.  Strength- 
en us  in  all  temptations,  that  we  striving  in  true  faith, 
may  overcome,  and  hereafter  enjoy  with  Christ,  life  eter- 
nal. 

We  ask  thee  for  all  these  things,  as  our  faithful  Lord, 
and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ  himself  hath  taught  us  : 

Our  Father,  Sec. 

Afterward^  the  congregation  is  dismissed  with  the 
-usual  blessing. 

Receive  the  blessing  of  the  Lord, 

The  Lord  bless  thee,  and  keep  thee  :  'The  Lord  make 
his  face  to  shine  upon  thee,  and  be  gracious  unto  thee  : 
the  Lord  lift  up -his  countenance  upon  thee,  and  give  thee 
peace. 


>+« 


A  Prayer  before  the  explanation  of  the  Catechism, 

O   heavenly    Father,  thy  word  is  perfect,  converting 
the  soul,  a  sure  testimony,  making  wise  the  simple, 
enlightening  the  eyes  of  the  blind,  and  a  powerful  means  \ 
unto  salvation,  for  all  those  who  believe.     And  whereas 
we  are  not  only  blind  by  nature,  but  even  incapable  of  do-  ^ 
ing  any  good  :    And  also   since  thou  wilt  help  none,  but 
those  who  are  of  a  broken  and  contrite  heart ;  we  beseech 
thee  to  enlighten  our  undestanding  with  thy  holy  spirit, 
and  give  us  a  meek  heart,  free  from  all  haughtiness  ancU 
carnal  knowledge,  that  we  may,  hearing  thy  word  rightly 
understand  it,  and  regulate  our  life  accordingly  :  be  gra- 
ciously pleased  to  convert  all  those  who  still  stray  from 
thy  truth,  that  we  may  together  with  them,  unanimously 
serve  thee  in  true  holiness  and  righteousness  all  the  days  I 
of  our  life. 

We  crave  all  these  things  for  Christ's  sake,  who  hath  I 
thus  taught  us  to  pray  in  his  name,  and  promised  to  , 
hear  us  ;  Our  Father,  &c. 

A  Prayer  after  the  explanation  of  the  Catechism. 

O  gracious  God,  and  merciful  Father,  we  give 
thee  hearty  thanks  that  it  hath  pleased  thee,  not  only 
to  take  us  in  thy  covenant,  but  also  our  little  children, 
which  thou   hast  not  only  sealed  unto  them,  by  thy  holy 


H 


THE  LITURGY.  7* 

baptism,  buUvct  daily  shewcth  when  thou  perfectest  thy 
praise  out  of  their  mouths,  thus  to  cause  the  wise  world 
to  blush  :  we  beseech  thee,  increase  thy  grace  in  them, 
that  they  may  always  grow  up  and  wax  in  Christ  thy  Son  ; 
till  they  acquire  their  perfect  manly  age  in  all  knowledge 
and  righteousness.  Give  us  grace,  that  we  muy  educate 
them,  as  thou  hast  commanded  us,  in  thy  knowledge  and 
fear,  that  by  their  godliness  the  kingdom  of  satan  may  be 
destroyed,  and  the  kingdom  of  Jesus  Christ  strengthened 
in  this  and  other  congregations,  to  the  glory  of  thy  holy 
name,  and  to  their  eternal  salvation,  through  Jesus  Christ. 
Amen.  — •+•— - 

A  Prayer  before  sermon  in  the  week. 
eavexly  Father,  eternal  and  merciful  God,  we  ac- 
knowledge and  confess  before  thy  divine  majesty,  that 
we  arc  poor  miserable  sinners,  conceived  in  sin,  and  born 
in  iniquity,  prone  to  all  evil,  unfit  for  any  good  ;  and  that 
we  by  our  sinful  life,  continually  transgress  thy  holy  com- 
mandments, whereby  we  provoke  thine  anger  against  us, 
.and  according  to  thy  righteous  judgment, expose  ourselves 

■pntp  eternal  damnation.  But,  O  Lord,  we  repent  and  are 
sorry  that  we  have  offended  thee,  we  bewail  our  transgres- 
sions,beseeching  that  thou  wilt  graciously  pity  our  misery. 
Have  compassion  on  us,  O  most  bounteous  God  and  Fa- 
ther, and  forgive  us  all  our  sins,  for  that  holy  passion  of 
thy  well  beloved  son  Jesus  Christ.     Grant  us  also  the 

£grace  of  thy  holy  Spirit,  that  we  may  with  all  our  hearts 

•  study  to  know  our  own  unrighteousness,  and  sincerely  ab- 
hor ourselves  ;  that  sin  may  be  mortified  in  us,  and  we  be 
raised  up  to.  a  new  life  ;  that  we  may  bring  forth  genuine 

j  fruits  of  holiness  and  righteousness,  which  through  Jesus 
Christ  are  acceptable  to  thee.  Give  us  to  understand  thy 
holy  word  according  to  thy  divine  will,  that  we  may  learn 
thereby  to  put  our  whole  trust  in  thee  alone,  and  withdraw 
it  from  all  creatures.  That  also  our  old  man,  with  all 
the  affections  thereof,  may  be  daily  more  and  more  cruci- 
~ed,  and  that  we  offer  up  ourselves  unto  thee  a  living  sac- 
rifice, to  the  glory  of  thy  holy  name,  and  to  the  edification' 
of  our  neighbours  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,  who 
hath  taught  and  commanded  us  to  pray,  Our  Father,  Sec. 

A  Prayer  after  sermon  in  the  week. 

Lord  God  Almighty,  let  not  thy  holy  name  be  profaned 
for  our  sins,  for  we  have  divers  wavs  sinned  again st 
G 


fied 


74  THE  LITURGY. 

thee,  since  we  arc  not  obedient  to  thy  holy  word,  as  we 
ought  to  be,  and  through  ignorance  and  murmuring  daily- 
stir  up  thine  anger  against  us  :  wherefore  thou  dost  justly  gj 
punish  us :  but,  O  Lord,  be  mindful  of  thy  great  mercy,  >| 
and  have  compassion  on  us.     Give  us  knowledge  of  and 
repentance  for  our  sins,  and  amendment  of  our  lives  ; 
strengthen  the  ministers  of  thy  church,  that  they  may 
faithfully  and  stedfastly  declare  thy  holy  word  ;  and  the    i 
magistrates  of  thy  people,  that  they  may  bear  the  sword    I 
with  equity  and  prudence,  preserve  us  from  all  deceit  and 
unfaithfulness,    confound   all  evil,    and   subtle    counsels'  ! 
taken  against  thy  word  and  church.     O  Lord  withhold  not 
from  us  thy  spirit  and  word,  but  grant  us  increase  of  faith  ;J| 
and  in  all  trouble  and  adversity,  patience  and  constancy. 
Assist  thy  church,  deliver  her  from  all  affliction,  derision,^! 
and  persecution.     Strengthen  also  the  weak  and  sorrow-/ 
ful  of  heart,  and  send  us  thy  peace,  through  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord,  who  hath  given  us  this  sure  promise:  verily 
-verily  I  say  unto  you,  whatsoever  ye  shall  ask  of  the  Fa- 
ther in  my  name,  he  will  give  it  you  ;  and  hath  command- 
ed us  to  pray,  Our  Father,  &c. 

A  Morning  Prayer. 

O  merciful  Father,  we  thank  thee,  that  thou  hast  ^ 
in  faithfulness  watched  over  us  the  night  past,  and 
beseech  thee  to  strengthen,  and  henceforth  guide  us  by  , 
thy  holy  Spirit,  that  we  may  spend  this,  and  all  the  days* 
of  our  lives  in  all  righteousness  and  holiness,  and  that 
whatsoever  we  undertake,  we  may  always  aim  at  the  pro- 
moting of  thy  glory,  and  expect  all  the  success  of  our  un- 
dertakings from  thy  bountiful  hand  alone  :  and  to  the  end 
that  we  may  obtain  this  mercy  of  thee,  be  pleased  (accord- 
ing to  thy  promise)  to  forgive  all  our  sins  through  the 
holy  passion  and  blood-shedding  of  our  Lord  and  Saviour 
Jesus  Christ,  for  we  heartily  repent  of  them.  Enlighten 
also  our  hearts,  that  we,  having  cast  off  all  works  of  dark- 
ness, may  as  children  of  light  walk  in  anew  life  in  all  god- "% 
iiness.  Bless  also  the  preaching  of  thy  gospel.  Destroy 
all  works  of  the  devil.  Strengthen  all  ministers  of  the 
gospel,  and  magistrates  of  thy  people.  Comfort  all  those 
who  are  persecuted  and  afflicted  in  mind,  through  Jesus 
Christ  thy  beloved  Fon,  who  hath  promised  us,  that  thou 
wilt  certainly  give  us,  whatsoever  we  shall  ask  in  his  name, 
and  therefore  hath  commanded  us  to  pray,  OurFather,&c 


o 


THE  LITURGY.  75 

An  evening1  Prayer. 
merciful  God,  eternal  light,  Filming  in  darkness, 
thou  who  dispellest  the  night  of  sin,  and  all  Blindness 
of  heart,  since  thou  hast  appointed  the  night  for  rest,  and 
the  day  for  labour  ;  we  beseech  thee,  grant  that  our  bodies 
may  rest  in  peace  and  quietness,  that  afterwards  they  may 
be  able  to  endure  the  labour  they  must  bear.  Temper  our 
sleep,  that  it  be  not  disorderly,  that  wc  may  remain  spot- 
•  less  both  in  body  and  soul,  nay  that  our  sleep  itself  may  be 
to  thy  glory.  Enlighten  the  eyes  of  cur  understanding, 
that  we  may  not  sleep  in  death  ;  but  always  look  for  our 
deliverance  from  this  misery.  Defend  us  against  all  as- 
saults of  the  devil,  and  take  us  in  thv  holy  protection.  And 
although  we  have  not  passed  this  day,  without  havim; 
greatly  sinned  against  thee,  we  beseech  thee  to  hide  our 
sins  with  thy  mercy,  as  thou  hidest  all  things  on  earth  with 
the  darkness  of  the  night,  that  we  therefore  may  not  be  cast 
out  from  thy  presence.  Relieve  and  comfort  all  those 
who  are  afflicted  or  distressed  in  mind,  body  or  estate, 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,  who  hath  taught  us  to 
pray:  Our  Father,  he. 

A  Prayer  at  the  opening  of  the  Consistory. 

Heavenly  Father,  eternal  and  merciful  God,  it  hath 
pleased  thee  of  thy  infinite  wisdom  and  goodness 
to  gather  a  church  to  thyself  out  of  ill  nations  upon  the 
face  of  the  earth,  by  the  preaching  of  the  holy  gospel,  and 
to  govern  the  same  by  the  service  of  men.  Thou  hast  cuso 
graciously  called  us  up  to  this  office,  and  commanded  us 
to  take  heed  unto  ourselves  and  unto  the  flock,  which 
Christ  hath  bought  with  his  precious  blood. — Since  we  are 
at  this  present  assentled  in  thy  holy  name,  after  the  exam- 
ple of  the  apostolic  churches,  to  consult  as  our  office  re- 
quires of  those  things  which  may  come  before  us,  concern- 
ing the  welfare  and  edification  of  thy  churches,  for  which 
we  acknowledge  ourselves  to  be  unfit  and  incapable,  as  we 
are  by  nature  unable  of  ourselves  to  think  any  good,  much 
less  to  put  it  in  practice  :  therefore  we  beseech  thee,  O 
faithful  God  and  Father,  that  thou  wilt  be  pleased  to  be 
present  with  thy  holy  spirit,  according  to  thy  promise,  in 
the  midst  of  our  present  assembly*  to  guide  us  in  aii  truth. 
Remove  from  us  all  mis.  ppreliensions  anduab-;comn.g  de- 
sires of  the  flesh,  and  grant  that  thy  holy  word  may  be  the 
only  rule  and  guide  of  all  our  consultations,  that  they  may 


o 


76  THE  LITURGV. 

tend  to  the  glory  of  thy  name,  and  to  the  edification  of  thy 
churchy  and  to  the  discharge  of  our  own  con  science  Sjjj 
through  Jesus  Christ  thy  Son,  who  with  thee  and  the  Holy 
Ghost,  the  only  true  God,  art  eternally  to  be  praised  and 
magnified.     Amen.  ■■ 

A  Prayer  at  the  close  of  the  Consistory. 
Lord   God  and  heavenly  Father,   we  heartily  thank 
thee,  that  thou  hast  been  pleased  to  gather  a  church 
to  thyself  in  this  part  of  the  world,  and  to  use  our  service^, 
therein,  granting  us  the  privilege,  that  we  may  freely  and 

houthinae ranee  preach  thy  holy  gospel  and  exercise  all  J 
the  duties  of  godliness:  moreover  we  thank  thee,  that  thou 
row  hast  been  present  with  thy  holy  spirit  in  the  midst  of 
this  our  assembly,  directing  our  determinations-according 
to  thy  will,  uniting  our  hearts  in  mutual  peace  and  con-  I 
cord.  We  beseech  thee,  O  faithful  God  and  Father,  that 
thou  wilt  graciously  be  pleased  to  bless  our  intended  la- 
bour, and  effectually  to  execute  thy  began  work  :  alwa^yi 
gathering  unto  thyself  a  true  church,  and  preserving  the 
same  in  the  pure  doctrine,  and  in  the  right  use  of  thy  holy 
sacraments,  and  in  a  diligent  exercise  of  discipline.  On 
the  contrary  destroy  all  evil  and  crafty  councils,  which  are 
devised  against  thy  word  and  church.  Strengthen  also  all 
ministers  of  thy  church,  that  they  may  faithfully  and  sted- 
fastly  declare  thy  holy  word.  And  the  magistrates  of  thy 
people,  that  they  may  hear  the  sword  with  righteousness 
and  discretion.  Particularly  we  pray  for  those,  whom 
thou  hast  been  pleased  to  put  in  authority  over  us,  both 
those  of  higher  and  lower  dignity,  and  especially  for  the 
worshipful  magistrates  ofthis  city.  Grant  that  their  whole 
government  may  be  thus  directed,  that  the  King  of  all 
kings  may  rule  over  them  and  their  fellow 
that  the  kingdom  of  the  devil  (which  is  a  kingdom  of 
scandal  and  reproach)  may,  daily  more  and  more  be  de- 
stroyed and  brought  to  nought  by  them  as  thy  scrvents, 
and  that  we  may  lead  unto  them  a  quiet  and  peaceable  life, 
in  all  godliness  and  honesty.  Hear  us,  O  God  and  Father, 
through  Jesus  Christ  thy  beloved  Son.  Who  with  thee  and 
the  Hcly  Ghost,  the  only  and  true  God,  are  eternally  to, be 
magnified  and  praised.     Amen.  ,<r   '-, 

A  Frayer  at  th"  meeting  of  the  Deacons. 
erciful  God  and  Father,  thou  who  hast  not  only  said 
unto  us,  that  we  should  always  have  the  poor  with  us, 


M 


THE  LITURGY.  77 

■  . 

but  hast  also  commanded  thut  they  should  be  assisted,  and 
•  for  that  end  hast  ordained  the  service  of  deacons  in  thy 
church,  by  whom  they  might  be  relieved  :  and  as  we  who 
are  called  to  the  office  of  deacons  in  this  congregation,  are 
here  at  present  met  in  thy  name,  to  consult  together  con- 
cerning our  ministry,  therefore  we  humbly  beseech  thee 
for  tiie  sake  of  Jesus  Christ,  that  thou  wilt  be  pleased  to  en- 
due us  with  the  spirit  of  discretion,  to  the  end  that  we  may 
rightly  discern  who  are  really  poor,  and  who  are  not :  kthat 
we  may  with  all  cheerfulness  and  fidelity,  distribute  the  alms 
collected  by  us  to  every  one  according  to  his  necessity,. 
'  not  leaving  the  indigent  members  of  thy  beloved  Son  com- 
fortless, neither  giving  those  who  are  not  in  want.  Kin- 
dle within  the  hearts  of  men  an  ardent  love  towards  the 
poor,  that  they  may  liberally  give  of  their  temporal  goods, 
of  which  thou  hast  made  them  stewards  ;  and  that  we  hav- 
ing the  means  in  hamd  to  assist  the  indigent,  may  faithfully 
without  vexation,  and  with  a  free  heart,  serve  our  office. 
Grant  us  also  the  talents, not  only  to  comfort  the  miserable 
with  the  external  gift,  but  also  with  the  holy  word.  And 
since  man  doth  not  live  by  bread  alone,  but  by  every  word 
that  proceedeth  out  of  thy  mouth,  be  pleased  therefore  to 
extend  thy  blessing  over  our  distributions,  and  increase 
the  bread  of  the  poor,  that  both  we  and  they  may  have  rea- 
son to  praise  and  thank  thee  :  expecting  the  blessed  com- 
ing of  thy  beloved  Son  Jesus  Christ,  who  became  poor  for 
our  sakes  to  make  us  rich  in  eternity.     Amen. 

Grace  before  meat. 
Psalm  cxlv.  15,1 6, — The  eyes  of  all  wait  upon  thee,  and 
thou  givest  them  their  meat  in  due  season.    Thou  openest 
thine  hand,  and  satisnest  the  desire  of  every  living  thing. 

A  lmig  hty  God,  thou  who  hast  created  all  things,  and  dost 
still  maintain  and  govern  them  by  thy  divine  power, 
and  didst  feed  thy  people  Israel  in  the'wilderness,  bless  us 
thy  poor  servants,  and  sanctify  these  thy  gifts,  which  we 
receive  from  thy  bountiful  goodness,  that  we  may  tempe- 
rately and  hoiily  use  them  according  to  thy  will,  and  there-, 
by  acknowledge  that  thou  art  our  Father,  and  the  fountain 
of  all  good.  Grant  also  that  we  may  at  all  times  and  above 
all  things  seek  for  that  spiritual  bread  of  thy  word,  with 
winch  our  souls  are  fed  to  life  eternal,  which  thou  hast  pre- 
pared for  us  by  the  holy  blood  of  thy  beloved  Son  Jesus- 
Christ.  Amen.  Our  Father,  &c. 
G2 


78  THE  LITURGY. 

Mso  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  admonishes  us  : 
Luke  xxi.  34,  35,— And  take  heed  to  yourselves,  lest  at 
any  time  your  hearts  be  evercharged  with  surfeiting,  and 
drunkenness,  and  cares  of  this  life,  and  so  that  day  come 
upon  you  unawares  :  for  as  a  snare  shall  it  come   on  all 
them  that  dwell  on  the  face  of  the  whole  earth. 
Grace  after  meat. 
Thus  spcaketh  the  Lord,  in  the  fifth  book  of  Moses, 
chap,,  viii.  10,  1 1, — When  thou  hast  eaten  and  art  full,  then 
thou  shalt  bless  the  Lord  thy  God,  for  the  good  land  which 
he  hath  given  thee.    Beware  that  thou  forget  not  the  LordjJ 
thy  God,  in  not  keeping  his  commandments,  and  his  judg- 
ments, and  his  statutes  which  I  commanded  thee  this  day. 

OLord   God,  and  heavenly  Father,  we  thank  thee  for 
all  thy  benefits, which  we  without  intermission  receive 
from  thy  bountiful  hand  ;  we  bless  thy  divine  will,  for  pre- 
serving us  in  this  mortal  life,  and  for  supplying  all  our 
wants  :  but  especially  for  our  regeneration  unto  a  hope  of 
a  better  life,  which  thou  hast  revealed  unto  us  by  the  gos-% 
pel.     We  beseech  thee  merciful  God  and  Father,  not  to 
suffer  our  hearts  to  be  fixed  upon  these  earthly  and  cor=- 
ruptible  things:  but  that  we  may  always  look  up  to  heaven,^ 
expecting  thence  our  Saviour  Jesus  Christ,  until  he  ap- 
pear in  the  clouds  for  our  deliverance.     Amen. 

Our  Father,  &c. 


O 


A  Prayer  for  sick  and  tempted  persons. 
almighty,  eternal,  righteous  God,  and  merciful  Fa- 
ther, thou  who  art  Lord  of  life  and  death,  and  without 
whose  will  nothing  is  done  in  heaven,  or  in  earth,  although 
we  are  not  worthy  to  call  upon  thy  name,  nor  to  hope  that 
thou  wiit  hear  us,  when  we  consider  how  we  have  hitherto 
employed  our  time  ;  we  beseech  thee,  that  thou  wilt  be  ' 
pleased  of  thy  mercy  to  look  upon  us  in  the  face  of  Jesus 
Christ,  who  has  taken  all  our  infirmities  on  him  :  we  ac- 
knowledge that  we  are  utterly  incapable  of  any  good,  and 
prone  to  all  evil,  wherefore  we  have  justly  merited  this 
punishment,  yea  have  deserved  much  more.  But  Lord, 
thou  knowest  that  we  are  thy  people,  and  that  thcu  ait  our 
God  :  we  have  no  other  refuge  than  to  thy  mercy,  which 
thou  never  hast  withheld  from  any  one  who  turned  himself 
to  thee.  Therefore  we  beseech  thee  not  to  impute  our 
sins  unto  us,  but  account  the  wisdom,  righteousness  and 
holiness  of  Jebus  Christ  to  us,  that  we  may  in  him  be  able 


THE  LITURGY.        •  7  9 

to  stand  before  thee.  Deliver  us  for  his  sake  from  these 
sufferings,  that  the  wicked  may  not  think  that  tl  ou  hast 
forsaken  us.  And  if  it  is  thy  pleasure  longer  thus  to  try 
us,  give  us  strength  and  patience  to  bear  all  such  accord- 
ing to  thy  will,  and  let  it  all  turn  according  to  thy  wisdom 
to  our  profit.  Rather  chastise  us  here,  than  hereafter  to 
be  lost  with  the  world.  Grant  that  we  may  die  from  this 
world,  and  all  earthly  things,  and  that  we  may  daily  more 
and  more  be  renewed  after  the  image  of  Jesus  Christ. 
Suffer  us  not  to  be  separated  by  any  means  from  thy  love  : 
but  draw  us  daily  nigher  and  nigher  unto  thee,  that  we 
may  enter  upon  the  end  of  our  calling  with  joy,  that  is,  to 
die  to  rise  again  and  live  with  Christ  in  eternity.  We  also 
believe  that  thou  wilt  hear  us  through  Jesus  Christ,  who 
hath  taught  us  to  pray,  Our  Father,  Sec. 

Strengthen  us  also  in  the  true  faith,  which  we  believe  in 
our  hearts  and  profess  with  our  mouths:  I  believe  in 
God,  Sec. 

Or  thus  : 

Eternai:  merciful  God  and  Father,  the  eternal  salvation 
of  the  living  and  the  everlasting  life  of  the  dying  :  see- 
ing that  thou  hast  death  and  life  in  thy  hand  alone,  and  tak- 
est  such  care  of  us  continually,  that  neither  health  nor 
sickness,  nor  any  good  or  evil  can  befal  us,  nay  not  a  hair 
can  fall  from  our  head  without  thy  will.  And  since  thou 
dost  order  all  things  for  the  good  of  thy  people,  we  be- 
seech thee  grant  us  the  grace  of  thy  holy  spirit,  to  teach 
us  rightly  to  acknowledge  our  misery,  and  patiently  to 
bear  thy  chastisings,  which  we  have  deserved  ten  thou- 
sand times  more  severe.  We  know  that  they  are  not 
the  evidences  of  thy  wrath,  but  of  thy  fatherly  love 
towards  us,  that  we  should  not  be  condemned  with  the 
world. — O  Lord  increase  our  faith  in  thine  infinite  mercy 
that  we  may  be  more  and  more  united  to  Christ,  as  mem- 
bers to  their  spiritual  head,  to  whom  thou  wilt  make  us 
conform  in  sufferings  and  in  glory.  Lighten  the  cross,  so 
that  our  weakness  may  be  able  to  bear  it,  we  submit  our- 
selves entirely  to  thy  holy  will,  whether  thou  art  pleased 
to  continue  our  souls  longer  in  these  tabernacles,  or  take 
them  into  eternal  life,  since  we  belong  to  Christ'and  there- 
fore shall  not  perish.  We  would  willingly  leave  this  weak 
body  in  hopes  of  a  blessed  resurrection,  when  it  shall  be 
restored  to  us  much  more  glorious.  Grant  us  to  experi- 
ence the  blessed  comfort  of  the  remission  of  sins,  and  of 


80  BAPTISM. 

justification  through  Christ,  that  we  by  that  shield  may 
overcome  all  the  assaults  of  satan.  May  his  innocent  blood 
wash  away  ail  the  stain,  and  uncleanness  of  our  sins,  and 
his  righteousness  answer  for  our  unrighteousnass  in  thy 
last  judgment.  Arm  us  with  faith  and  hope,  that  we  may 
not  be  ashamed  or  confounded  by  the  terror  of  death,  but 
when  our  bodily  eyes  are  closing  in  darkness,  may  the  eyes 
of  our  souls  be  directed  towards  thee,  and  when  thou  shalt 
have  deprived  us  of  the  use  of  our  tongues,  may  our  hearts 
never  cease  to  call  upon  thee.  O  Lord,  we  commit  our 
souls  into  thy  hands,  forsake  us  not  in  our  last  extremity, 
and  that  only  for  the  sake  of  Christ  Jesus,  who  hath  taught 
us  to  pray,  Our  Father,  Sec. 

THE  FORM 

for  the  Administration  of Baptism  to  Infants  of  Believers. 

The  principal  parts  of  the  doctrine  of  holy  baptism  are 
these  three  :  First,  That  we  with  our  children  are 
conceived  and  born  in  sin,  and  therefore  are  children  of 
wrath,  in  so  much  that  we  cannot  enter  into  the  kingdom 
of  God,  except  we  are  born  again.  This  the  dipping  in  or 
sprinkling  with  water  teaches  us,  whereby  the  impurity  of 
our  souls  is  signified,  and  we  admonished  to  loathe,  and 
humble  ourselves  before  God, and  seek  for  our  purification 
and  salvation  without  ourselves. 

Secondly.  Holy  baptism  witnesseth  and  sealeth  unto  us 
the  washing  away  of  sins  through  Jesus  Christ.  Therefore 
we  are  baptised  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son> 
and  of  'the \  Holy  Ghost.  For  when  we  are  baptised  in  the 
name  of  the  Father,  God  the  Father  witnesseth  and  sealeth 
unto  us,  that  he  doth  make  an  eternal  covenant  of  grace 
with  us,  and  adopts  us  for  his  children  and  heirs, and  there- 
fore will  provide  us  with  every  good  thing,  and  avert  all 
evil,  or  turn  it  to  our  profit.  And  when  we  are  baptised 
In  the  name  of  the  Son,  the  Son  sealeth  unto  us,  that  he 
doth  wash  us  in  his  blood  of  all  our  sins,  incorporating  us 
into  the  fellowship  of  his  death  and  resurrection,  so  that 
we  are  freed  from  all  our  sins,  and  accounted  righteous 
before  God.  In  like  manner,  when  we  are  baptised  in  the 
name  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  the  Holy  Ghost  assures  us,  by 
this  holy  sacrament,  that  he  will  dwell  in  us,  and  sanctify 
us  to  be  members  of  Christ,  applying  unto  us,  that  which 
we  have  in  Christ;  namely  the  washing  away  of  our  sins, 


BAPTISM.  81 

and  the  daily  renewing  of  our  lives,  till  we  shall  finally  be 
presented  without  spot  or  wrinkle  among  the  assembly  of 
the  elect  in  life  eternal. 

Thirdly.  Whereas  in  all  covenants,  there  are  contain- 
ed two  parts  :  therefore  arc  we  by  God  through  baptism, 
admonished  of,  and  obliged  unto  new  obedience,  namely, 
that  we  cleave  to  this  one  God,  Father,  Son,  and  Holy 
Ghost  ;  that  we  trust  in  him,  and  love  him  with  all  our 
hearts,  with  all  our  souls,  with  all  our  mind,  and  with  all 
our  strength  ;  that  we  forsake  the  world,  crucify  our  old 
nature,  and  walk  in  a  new  and  holy  life. 

And  if  we  sometimes  through  weakness  fall  into  sin, 
we  must  not  therefore  despair  of  God's  mercy,  nor  con- 
tinue in  sin,  since  baptism  is  a  seal  and  undoubted  testi- 
mony, that  we  have  an  eternal  covenant  of  Grace  with  God. 
;  And  although  our  young  children  do  not  understand 
these  things,  we  may  not  therefore  exclude  them  from 
baptism,  for  as  they  are  without  their  knowledge,  par- 
takers cf  the  condemnation  in  Adam,  so  are  they  again 
received  unto  grace  in  Christ ;  as  God  speaketh  unto 
Abraham  the  father  of  all  the  faithful,  and  therefore  unto 
us  and  our  children,  Gen.  17.  7,  saying,  "  I  will  estab- 
lish my  covenant  between  me  and  thee,  and  thy  seed  after 
thee,  in  their  generations,  for  an  everlasting  covenant ;  to 
be  a  God  unto  thee,  and  to  thy  seed  after  thee."  This 
the  Apostle  Peter  testifieth,  with  these  words,  Acts 
2.  39,  "  For  the  promise  is  unto  you,  and  to  your  chil- 
dren, and  to  all  that  are  [.far  off',  even  as  many  as  the 
Lord  our  God  shall  call."  Therefore  God  formerly 
commanded  them  to  be  circumcised,  which  was  a  seal  of 
the  covenant,  and  the  righteousness  of  faith  :  arid  there- 
fore Christ  also  embraced  them,  laid  his  hands  upon  ilicm 
and  blessed  them  :     Mark,  Chap.  10. 

Since  then  baptism  is  come  in  the  place  of  circumcision, 
therefore  infants  are  to  be  baptised  as  heirs  of  the  king- 
'  domofGod,  and  his  covenant.  And  parents  are  in  duty 
bound,  further  to  instruct  their  children  herein,  when 
they  shall  arrive  to  years  of  discretion.  That  therefore 
tliis  holy  ordinance  of  God,  may  be  administered  to  his 
glory,  to  our  comfort,  and  to  the  edification  of  his  church, 
Ictus  call  upon  his  holy  name. 

f\   almighty  and  eternal  God  (who  in  thy  severe  judg- 

^■^  ment,  didst  punish  the  unbelieving  and  impenitent 
world  with  the  flood,  and  didst  of  thy  great  mercy  save 
and  preserve  the  faithful  Noah  and  his  familv  :  who  didst 


82  BAPTISM. 

drown  the  hard  hearted  Pharaoh  with  all  his  host  in  tl 
Red  Sea,  and  didst  safely  lead  thy  people  Israel  thro; 
the  same,  by  which  baptism  was  signified.)  We  beseech 
thee,  that  thou  wilt  be  pleased  of  thine  infinite  mercy, 
graciously  to  look  upon  these  children,  and  incorporate 
them  by  thy  holy  spirit  into  thy  son  Jesus  Christ,  that  they 
may  be  buried  with  him  into  his  death,  and  be  raised  with 
him  in  newness  of  life  ;  that  they  may  daily  follow  him, 
joyfully  bearing  their  cross,  and  cleave  unto  him  in  true 
faith,  firm  hope,  and  ardent  love:  that  they  may  with  a 
comfortable  sense  of  thy  favour,  leave  this  life  (which  is 
nothing  but  a  continual  death)  and  at  the  last  day,  may  ap- 
pear without  terror  before  the  judgment  seat  of  Christ  thy 
Son,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,  who  with  thee  and  the 
Holy  Ghost,  one  only  God,  lives  and  reigns  forever,  Amen, 
An  Exhortation  to  the  Parents^  and  those  who  co? 
with   them  to   Baptism. 

Beloved  in  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  you  have  heard  that 
baptism  is  an  ordinance  of  God,  to  seal  unto  us  and  to 
our  seed  his  covenant,  therefore  it  must  be  used  for  that 
end,  and  not  out  of  custom  or  superstition.  That  it  may 
then  be  manifest,  that  you  are  thus  minded,  you  are  to  an- 
swer sincerely  upon  these  questions. 

First.  Whether  you  do  not  acknowledge,  that  although 
our  children  are  conceived  and  born  in  sin,  and  therefore 
are  subject  to  all  miseries,  yea  to  condemnation  itself,  yet 
that  they  are  sanctified  in  Christ,  and  therefore  as  mem- 
bers of  his  church  ought  to  be  baptised  ? 

Secondly.  Whether  you  do  not  acknowledge  the  doc- 
trine which  is  contained  in  the  old  and  new  testaments, 
and  in  the  articles  of  the  christian  faith,  and  which  is 
taught  here  in  this  christian  church,  to  be  the  true  and 
perfect  doctrine  of  salvation  ? 

Thirdly.     Whether  you  do  not  promise  and  intend  to 
see  these  children  when  come  to  the   years  of  discretion 
(whereof  thou  art  cither  father  or  witness)  instructed  and 
brought  up  in  the  aforesaid  doctrine,  or  help  or  cause  them 
to  be  instructed  therein  to  the  utmost  of  your  power  ? 
Answer.     Yes. 
Then  the  minister  of  God's  word  in  baptising,  shall  ssay 
N.  I  baptise  thee,  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the 
Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.      Amen. 
Thanksgiving. 
4  lmighty  God  and  merciful  Father,  we   thank  and 
i\  praise  thee,  that  thou  hast  forgiven  us,  and  our  chil- 
4*^  u 


BAPTISM.  83 

drcn,  all  our  sins,  through  the  blood  of  thy  beloved  Sou 
Jesus  Christ,  and  received  us  through  thy  holy  spirit,  as 
members  of  thy  only  begotten  Son,  and  adopted  us  to  be 
thy  children,  and  sealed  and  confirmed  the  same  unto  us 
by  holy  baptism  :  we  beseech  thee  through  the  same  Son 
of  thy  love,  that  thou  wilt  be  pleased  always  to  govern 
these  baptised  children  by  thy  holy  Spirit,  that  they  may 
be  piously  and  religiously  educated,  increase  and  grow  up 
in  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  that  they  may  acknowledge  thy 
fatherly  goodness  and  mercy,  which  thou  hast  shewn  to 
them  and  us,  and  live  in.  all  righteousness,  under  our 
only  Teacher,  King  and  high  Priest  Jesus  Christ,  and 
manfully  fight  against,  and  overcome  sin*  the  devil  and 
his  whole  dominion  to  the  end  that  they  may  eternally 
praise  and  magnify  thee,  and  thy  Son  Jesus  Christ,  to- 
gether with  the  Holy  Ghost,  the  one  only  true  God. 
Amen. 

The  Form  for  the  Administration  of  holy  baptism  to 
adult  persons. 

However  children  of  christian  parents  (although  they 
understand  hot  this  mystery)  must  be  baptised  by 
virtue  of  the  covenant ;  yet  it  is  not  lawful  to  baptise 
those  who  are  come  to  years  of  discretion,  except  they 
first  be  sensible  of  their  sins,  and  make  confession  both  of 
their  repentance  and  faith  in  Christ ;  for  this  cause  hath 
not  only  John  the  Baptist  preached  (according  to  the  com- 
mand of  God)  the  baptism  of  repentance,  and  baptised, 
for  the  remission  of  sins,  those  who  confessed  their  sins, 
Mark  1.  and  Luke  3.  But  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  hath 
also  commanded  his  disciples  to  teach  all  nations,  and 
then  to  baptise  them,  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of 
the  Sen,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  Mat.  28.  Mark  16.  Add- 
ing this  promise  :  He  that  b^lieveth,  and  is  baptised,  shall 
be  saved.  According  to  which  rule,  the  Apostles,  as  ap- 
peareth  out  of  Acts  2.  10.  and  16.  have  baptised  none  who 
were  of  years  of  discretion,  but  such  who  made  confes- 
sion of  their  faith  and  repentance  ;  therefore  it  is  not  law- 
ful now  a  days,  to  baptise  any  other  adult  persons,  than 
such  as  have  been  taught  the  mysteries  oi  holy  baptism, 
by  the  preaching  of  the  gospel,  and  are  able  to  give  an 
account  of  their  faith  by  the  confession  of  the  mouth. 
Since  therefore  you  N.  are  also  desirous  of  holy  baptism, 
to  the  end,  it  may  be  to  you  a  seal  of  your  ingrafting  into 
the  church  of  God,  that  it  may  appear  that  you  do  not 


84  BAPTISiM. 

only  receive  the  christian  religion,  in  which  you  have 
been  p'ivately  instructed  by  us,  and  of  which  uiso  you 
have  made  confession  before  us  ;  but  that  you  (through 
the  grace  of  God)  intend  and  purpose  to  lead  a  life  accord- 
ing to  the  same  ;  you  are  sincerely  to  give  answer  before 
God  and  his  church  ;  First.  Dost  thou  believe  in  the 
only  true  God,  distinct  in  three  persons,  Father,  Son,  and 
Holy  Ghost,  who  hath  made  heaven  and  earth,  and  all 
that  in  them  is,  of  nothing,  and  still  maintains  and  governs 
them,  insomuch  that  nothing  comes  to  pass,  cither  i&W 
heaven  or  on  earth,  without  his  divine  will  ? 

Answer.  Yes. 
,  Secondly.  Dost  thou  believe  that  thou  art  conceived 
and  born  in  sin,  and  therefore  art  a  child  of  wrath  by  na- 
ture, wholly  incapable  of  doing  any  good,  and  prone  to  all 
evil  ;  and  that  thou  hast  frequently  both  in  thought,  word 
and  deed,  transgressed  the  commandments  of  the  Lord : 
and  whether  thou  art  heartily  sorry  for  these  sins  ? 


Answer.     Yes 


Thirdly,  Dost  thou  believe  that  Christ,  who  is  the 
true  and  eternal  God,  and  very  man,  who  took  his  human 
nature  on  him  out  of  the  flesh  and  blood  of  the  virgin  *j 
Mary,  is  given  thee  of  God,  to  be  thy  Saviour,  and  that^ 
thou  dost  receive  by  this  faith,  remission  of  sins  in  his 
blood,  and  that  thou  art  made  by  the  power  of  the  Holy- 
Ghost,  a  member  of  Jesus  Christ,  and  his  church  ? 

Answer.     Yes. 

"Fourthly.  Dost  thou  assent  to  all  the  articles  of  the 
christian  religion,  as  they  are  taught  here,  in  this  christian 
church,  according  to  the  word  of  God,  and  purpose  stead- 
fastly to  continue  in  the  same  doctrine  to  the  end  of  thy 
life  ;  and  also  dost  thou  reject  all  heresies  and  schisms, 
repugnant  to  this  doctrine,  and  promise  to  persevere  in 
the  communion  of  our  christian  church,  not  only  in  the 
hearing  of  the  word,  but  also  hi  the  use  of  the  Lord's 
supper  ? 

Answer.     Yes. 

Fifthly.  Hast  thou  taken  a  firm  resolution  always  to 
lead  a  christian  life,  to  forsake  the  world  and  its  evil  lusts, 
as  is  becoming  the  members  of  Christ  and  his  church,  and 
to  submit  yourself  to  all  christian  admonitions  ? 

Answer.     Yes. 

The  good  and  great  God  mercifully  grant  his  grace  and 
blessing  to  thisyourpurpose, through  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


LORD'S  SUPPER.  8* 

THE  FORM 

for  the  Administration  of  the  Lord's  Sufificr. 

Beloved  in  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  attend  to  the  words! 
of  the  institution  of  the  holy  supper  of  our  Lord  Je- 
sus Christ,  as  thejr  are  delivered  by  the  hoiy  Apostle  Paul 
1  Cor.  11.  23 — 50. 

"  For  I  have  received  of  the  Lord,  that  which  also  I  de- 
livered unto  you,  that  the  Lord  Jesus,  the  same  night  in 
inch  he  was  betrayed,  took  bread;  and  when  he, had 
ven  thanks,  he  brake  it,  and  said,  take  eat,  this  is  my 
body,  which  is  broken  for  you,  this  do  in  remembrance  of 
me.     And  after  the  same  manner  also,  he  took  the  cup, 
'    when  he  had  supped,  Saying,  this  cup  is  the  new  testament 
in  my  blood,  this  do  ye,  as  oft  as  ye  drink  it  in  remem- 
brance of  me,  for  as  oft  as  ye  eat  this  bread,  and  drink 
this  cup,  ye  do  shew  the  Lord's  death  till  he  come,  where- 
fore, whosoever  shall  eat  this  bread,  and  drink  this  cup, 
P  of  the  Lord  unworthily,  shall  be  guilty  of  the  body  and 
blood  of  the  Lord.     But  let  a  man  examine  himself,  and 
so  let  him  eat  of  that  bread,  and  drink  of  that  cup  ;  for  he 
that  eateth  and  drinketh  unworthily,  eateth  and  drinketh 
damnation  to  himself,  not  discerning  the  Lord's  body."— . 
That  we  may  now  celebrate  the  supper  of  the  Lord  to  our 
comfort,  it  is  above  all  things  necessary, 

First.     Rightly  to  examine  ourselves. 

Secondly.  To  direct  it  to  that  end,  for  which  Christ 
hath  ordained  and  instituted  the  same,  ^namely,  to  his  re- 
membrance. The  true  examination  of  ourselves,  consists 
of  these  three  parts. 

First.  ThU  every  one  consider  by  himself,  his  sins 
and  the  curse  due  to  him  for  them,  to  the  end  that  he  may 
abhor  and  humble  himself  before  God  :  considering  that 
the  wrath  of  God  against  sin  is  so  great,  that  (rather  than 
it  should  go  unpunished)  he  hath  punished  the  same  in  his 
beloved  Son  Jesus  Christ,  with  the  bitter  and  shameful 
death  of  the  cross. 

Secondly.  That  every  one  examine  his  own  heart, 
whether  he  doth  believe  this  faithful  promise  of  God,  that 
all  his  sins  are  forgiven  him,  only  for  the  sc.ke  of  the  pas- 
sion and  death  of  Jesus  Christ,  and  that  the  perfect  righte- 
ousness of  Christ  is  imputed  and  freely  given  him  us  his 
own,  yea,  so  perfectly  as  if  he  K.cl  satisfied  in  his  own  per- 
son for  all  his  sins,  and  fulfilled  all  righteousness, 

H 


LORD'S  SUPPER. 

Thirdly.  That  every  one  examine  his  own  conscience, 
"\  nether  he  purposeth  henceforth  to  shew  true  thankful- 
ness to  God  in  his  whole  life,  and  to  walk  uprightly  before 

im  :  as  also,  whether  he  hath- laid  aside  unfeignediy  all 
enmity,  hatred,  and  envy,  and  doth  firmly  resolve  hence- 
forward to  walk  hi  true  love  and  peace  with  his  neighbour. 
All  those  then  who  are  thus  disposed,  God  will  certain- 
ly receive  in  mercy,  and  count  them  worthy  partakers  of 
the  table  of  his  Son  Jesus  Christ.  On  tl  e  contrary,  those 
>vho  do  not  feel  this  testimony  in  their  hearts,  eat  and  drink ' 
judgment  to  themselves. 

Therefore  we  also,  according  to  the  command  of  Christ 
and  the  Apostle  Puul,  admonish  all  those  who  are  defiled 
with  the  following  sins,  to  keep  themselves  from  the  table 
of  the  Lord,  and  declare  to  them  that  they  have  no  part  of 
the  kingdom  of  Christ ;  such  as  all  idolaters,  all  those  who 
invoke  deceased  saints,  angels,  or  other  creatures  ;  all 
those  who  worship  images ;  all  enchanters,  diviners, 
charmers,  and  those  who  give  credittosuch  enchantments; 
til  despisers  of  God  and  his  word,  and  of  the  holy  sacra- 
ments; all  blasphemers;  all  those  who  are  given  to  raise 
discord,  sects  and  mutiny  in  church  or  state ;  ail  perjured 
persons  ;  all  those  who  are  disobedient  to  their  parents 
and  superiors  ;  all  murderers,  contentious  persons,  and 
those  who  live  in  hatred  and  envy  against  their  neigh- 
bours ;  all  adulterers,  whoremongers,  drunkards,  thieves, 
usurers,  robbers,  gamesters,  covetous,  and  all  who  lead 
offensive  lives. 

All  these  while  they  contiue  in  such  sins,  shall  abstain 
from  this  meat  (which   Christ  hath  ordained  only  for  the 

-thful)  lest  their  judgment  and  condemnation  be  made  the 
heavier.  But  this  not  designed  (dearly  beloved  brethren 
.aid  sistes  hi  the  Lord)  to  deject  the  contrite  hearts  of  the 

Lthful,  as  if  none  might  come  to  the  supper  of  the  Lord, 
but  those  who  are  without  sin;  for  we  do  not  come  to  this 

jper,  to  testify  thereby  that  we  are  perfect  and  righte- 
ous in  ourselves  ;  but  on  the  contrary,  considering  that 
.,e  seek  our  life  out  of  ourselves  in  Jesus  Christ,  we  ac- 
knowledge that  we  lie  in  the  midst  of  death  :  therefore, 
notwithstanding  we  feel  many  infirmities  and  miseries  in 
ourselves,  as  namely,  that  we  have  not  perfect  faith,  and 
that  we  do  not  give  ourslves  to  serve  God  with  that  zeal 
as  we  are  bound,  but  have  daily  to  strive  with  the  weak- 
ness of  our  faith,  and  the  evil  lusts  of  our  flesh;  yet, 
since  we  are  (by  the  grace  of  the  Holy  Ghost)  sorry  for 


LORD'S  SUPPER. 

these  weaknesses,  and  earnestly  desirous  to  fight  against 
our  unbelief,  and  to  live  according  to  all  the  command- 
ments of  God  :  therefore  we  rest  assured  that  no  sin  or 
infirmity,  which  stiil  remaineth  against  our  will,  in  u?, 
can  hinder  us  from  being  received  of  God  in  mercy,  and 
from  being  made  worthy  partakers  of  this  heavenly  meat 
and  drink. 

Let  us  now  also  consider,  to  what  end  the  Lord  hath  in- 
stituted his  suoper,namely,  that  we  doit  in  remembrance  of 
him:  Now  after  this  manner  are  we  to  remember  him  by  it, 

First.  That  we  are  confidently  persuaded  in  our  hearts 
that  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  (according  to  the  promises 
made  to  our  forefathers  in  the  old  testament)  was  sent  of 
the  Father  into  the  world  :  that  he  assumed  our  flesh  and 
blood  ;  that  he  bore  for  us  the  wrath  of  God  (under  which 
we  should  have  perishedeverlastingly)  from  the  beginning 
of  his  incarnation,  to  the  end  of  his  life  upon  earth,  and  that 
he  hath  fulfilled  for  us,  all  obedience  to  the  divine  law,  and 
righteousness  :  especially,  when  the  weight  of  our  sins 
and  the  wrath  of  Ood  pressed  out  of  him  the  bloody  sweat 
in  the  garden,  where  he  was  bound  that  we  might  be  freed 
from  our  sins  :  that  he  afterwards  suffered  innumerable 
reproaches,  that  we  might  never  be  confounded.- — That  he 
was  innocently  condemned  to  death,  that  we  might  be 
acquitted  at  the  judgment-seat  of  God  :  yea,  that  he  suf- 
fered his  blessed  body  to  be  nailed  on  the  cross- — that  he 
might  fix  thereon  the  hand -writing  of  our  sins  ;  and  hath 
also  taken  upon  himself  the  curse  due  to  us,  that  he  might 
fill  us  with  his  blessings  ;  and  hath  humbled  himself  unto 
the  deepest  reproach  and  pains  of  heil,  both  in  body  and 
soul,  on  the  tree  of  the  cross,  when  he  cried  out  with  a 
loud  voice,  my  God,  my  God!  why  hast  thou  forsaken  me? 
That  we  might  be  accepted  of  God,  and  never  be  forsaken 
of  him.  And  finally  confirmed  with  his  death  and  shed- 
ding of  his  blood,  the  new  and  eternal  testament,  that  cov- 
enant of  grace  and  reconciliation, when  he  said  it  is  finished. 

And,  that  we  might  firmly  believe  that  we  belong  to  this 
covenant  of  grace,  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  in  his  last  sup- 
per, took  bread,  and  when  he  had  given  thanks,  he  brake 
if,  and  gave  it  to  his  disciples  and  said,  Take  eat,  this  is  my 
body  which  is  broken  for  you,  this  do  in  remembrance  of 
me  ;  in  like  manner  also  after  supper  he  took  the  cup, 
gave  thanks  and  said,  Drink  ye  all  of  it;  this  cup  is  the  new 
testament  in  my  blood,  which  is  shed  for  you  and  for  many,. 


88  LORD'S  SUPPER. 

for  the  remission  of  sins  ;  this  do  ye  as  often  as  ye  drink 
it  in  remembrance  of  me  :  that  is,  as  often  as  ye  eat  of  this 
bread  and  drink  of  this  cup,  you  shall  thereby,  as  by  a  sure 
remembrance  and  pledge,  be  admonished  and  assured  of 
this  my  hearty  love  and  faithfulness  towards  you  ;  that 
whereas  you  should  otherwise  have  suffered  eternal  death, 
I  have  given  my  body  to  the  death  of  the  cross,  and  shed 
my  blood  for  you  ;  and  as  cerwiniy  feed  and  nourish  your 
hungry  and  thirsty  soul  with  my  crucified  body,  and  shed 
blood  to  everlasting  life,  as  this  bread  is  broken  before 
your  eyes,  and  this  cup  is  given  to  you,  and  you  eat  and 
drink  the-  same  with  your  mouth,  in  remembrance  of  me. 

From  this  institution  of  the  holy  supper  of  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ,  we  see  that  he  directs  our  faith  and  trust  to 
his  perfect  sacrifice  (once  offered  on  the  cross)  as  to  the 
only  ground  and  foundation  of  our  salvation,  wherein  he  is 
become  to  our  hungry  and  thirsty  souls,  the  true  meat  and 
drink  of  life  eternal.*  For  by  his  death  he  hath  taken  away 
the  cause  of  our  eternal  death  and  misery,  namely,  sin  : 
and  obtained  for  us  the  quickening  spirit,  that  we  by  the 
same  (which  dwelleth  in  Christ  as  in  the  head,  and  in  us  as 
iiis  members)  might  have  true  communion  with  him,  and 
be  made  partakers  of  all  his  blessings,  of  life  eternal,  righ- 
teousness and  glory. 

Besides,  that  we  by  the  same  spirit  may  also  be  united 
as  members  of  one  body  in  true  brotherly  love,  as  the  holy 
Apostle  saith,  For  me  being  ma?iy,areone  bread  and  one  bo- 
dy ;  for  we  are  all  partakers  cf  that  one  bread.  For  as 
out  of  many  grains  one  meal  is  ground,  and  one  bread  bak- 
ed, and  out  of  many  berries  being  pressed  together,  one 
wine  floweth,  and  mixeth  itself  together  ;  so  shall  we  all, 
who  by  a  true  f-dth  are  ingrafted  into  Christ,  be  altogether 
one  body,  through  brotherly  love,  for  Christ's  sake,  our 
beloved  Saviour,  who  hath  so  exceedingly  loved  us  :  and 
not  only  shew  this  in  word,  but  also  in  very  deed  towards 
one  another. 

Hereto  assist  us,  the  Almighty  God  and  Father  of  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  through  his  holy  Spirit.     Amen. 

That  we  may  obtain  all  this,  let  us  humble  ourselves  be., 
fore  God,  and  with  true  faith  implore  his  grace. 

Omost  merciful  God  and  Father,  we  beseech  thee,  that 
thou  wilt  be  pleased  in  this  supper  (in  which  we  cele- 
brate the  glorious  remembrance  of  the  bitter  death  of  thy 
beloved  Son  Jesus  Christ)  to  work  in  our  hearts  through 


LORD'S  SUPPER.  89 

thy  holy  Spirit,  that  we  may  daily  more  and  more  with 
true  confidence,  give  ourselves  up  unto  thy  Son  J 
Christ,  that  our  afflicted  -and  contrite  hearts,  thr«.  ugh  tl  c 
power  of  the  Holy  Ghost  may  be  fed  and  ccmfoiad  wjth 
his  true  body  and  blood;  yea,  with  him,  true  God  and  - 
that  only  heavenly  bread  :  and  that  we  may  no  longer  live 
in  our  sins,  but  he  in  us,  and  we  in  him,  and  thus  truly  be 
made  partakers  of  the  new  and  everlasting  testament,  and 
of  the  covenant  of  grace.  That  we  may  not  doubt  but  thou 
wilt  forever  be  our  gracious  Father,  never  more  imputing 
our  sins  unto  us,  and  providing  us  with  all  tilings  necessa- 
ry as  well  for  the  body  as  the  soul,  as  thy  beloved  children 
and  heirs  ;  grant  us  also  thy  grace,  that  we  may  take  upon 
us  our  cross  cheerfully,  deny  ourselves,  confess  our 
Saviour,  and  in  all  tribulations  with  uplifted  heads  expect 
our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  from  heaven,  where  he  will  make 
our  mortal  bodies  like  unto  his  most  glorious  body,  and 
take  us  unto  him  in  eternity,  Amen.  Our  Father,  &c» 
Strengthen  us  also  by  this  holy  supper  in  the  Catholick 
undoubted  Christian  faith,  whereof  we  make  confession 
with  our  mouths  and  hearts,  saying, 

I  believe  in  God  the  Father  Almighty  Maker  of  heaven 
and  earth  :  and  in  Jesus  Christ  his  only  Son  our  Lord  : 
who  was  conceived  by  the  Holy  Ghost,  born  of  the  Virgin 
Mary,  suffered  under  Pontius  Pilate,  was  crucified,  dead 
and  buried,  he  descended  into  hell:  the  third  day  he  rose 
again  from  the  dead,  he  ascended  into  heaven,  and  sitteth 
on  the  right  hand  of  God  the  Father  Almighty  ;  from 
thence  he  shall  come  to  judge  the  quick  and  the  dead. 

I  believe  in  the  Holy  Ghost:  the  holy  Catholick  church : 
the  communion  of  saints:  the  forgiveness  of  sins  ;  the 
resurrection  of  the  body  ;  and  the  life  everlasting,  Amen, 

That  we  may  be  now  fed  with  the  true  heavenly  bread 
Christ  Jesus,  let  us  not  cleave  with  our  hearts  unto  the 
external  bread  and  wine,  but  lift  them  up  on  high  in  hea- 
ven, where  Christ  Jesus  is  our  advocate,  at  the  right  hand 
of  his  heavenly  Father,  whither  all  the  articles  of  our  faith 
lead  us  ;  not  doubting  but  we  shall  as  certainly  be  fed  and 
refreshed  in  our  souls  through  the  working  of  the  Holy 
Ghost  with  his  body  and  blood,  as  we  receive  the  holy 
bread  and  wine  in  remembrance  of  him. 

In  breaking  and  distributing  the  bread  the  Minister 
shall  say, 
H  2  * 


jo  LORD'S  SUPPER. 

The  bread  which  we  break,  is  the  communion  of  the 

body  of  Christ. 

And  when  he  giveth  the  cup, 
The  cup  of  blessing,  which  we  bless,  is  the  communion 

of  the  blood  of  Christ. 

During1  the  communion,  there  shall  or  may  be  devoutly 
sung,  a  psalm,  or  some  chapter  read,  in  remembrance 
of  the  death  of  Christ,  as  the  53d  chap,  of  Isaiah,  the 
13,  14,  15,  16,  17,  and  18,  chapters  of  John,  or 
the  like. 
After  the   Communion,  the  Minister  shall  say. 

Beloved  in  the  Lord,  since  the  Lord  hath  now  fed  our 
souls  at  his  table,  let  us  therefore  jointly  praise  his 
holy  name  with  thanksgiving,  and  every  one  say  in  his 
heart,  thuF, 

Bless  the  Lord,  O  my  soul ;  and  all  that  is  within  me, 
bless  his  holy  name. 

Bless  the  Lord,  Omy  soul,  and  forget  not  all  his  benefits. 

Who  forgiveth  all  thine  iniquities  :  who  healeth  all  thy 
diseases. 

Who  redeemeth  thy  life  from  destruction,  who  crown- 
eth  thee  with  loving  kindness  and  tender  mercies. 

The  Lord  is  merciful  and  gracious,  slow  to  anger  and 
plenteous  in  mercy. 

He  hath  not  dealt  with  us  after  our  sins,  nor  rewarded 
us  according  to  our  iniquities. 

For  as  the  heaven  is  high  above  the  earth,   so  great  is 
his  mercy  towards  them  that  fear  him. 

As  far  as  the  East  is  from  the  West,  so  far  hath  he. 
removed  our  transgressions  from  us. 

Like  as  a  father  pitieth  his  children,  so  the  Lord  pitieth  ^ 
them  that  fear  him. 

Who  hath  not  spared  his  own  Son,  but  delivered  him  up 
for  us  all,  and  given  us  all  things  with  him.  Therefore 
God  commendeth  therewith  his  love  towards  us,  in  that 
while  we  were  yet  sinners,  Christ  died  for  us ;  much 
more  then,  being  now  justified  in  his  blood,  we  shall  be 
saved  from  wrath  through  him:  for  if  when  we  were. ene- 
mies, we  were  reconciled  to  God  by  the  death  of  his  Son: 
much  more  being  reconciled,  we  shall  be  saved  by  his  life. 
Therefore  shall  my  mouth  and  heart  shew  forth  the  praise 
of  the  Lord  from  this  time  forth  for  evermore,  Ameo, 


EXCOMMUNICATION.  9 1 

Let  every  one  say  with  an  attentive  heart, 

O  almighty,  merciful  God  and  Father,  we  render 
thee  most  humble  and  hearty  thanks,  that  thou  hast 
of  thy  infinite  mercy,  given  us  thine  only  begotten  Son, 
for  a  Mediator  and  a  sacrifice  for  our  sins,  and  to  be  our 
meat  and  drink  unto  life  eternal,  and  that  thou  givest  us 
a  lively  faith,  whereby  we  are  made  partakers  of  such  of 
thy  benefits — thou  hast  also  been  pleased,  that  thy  belov- 
ed Son  Jesus  Christ  should  institute  and  ordain  his  holy 
supper  for  the  confirmation  of  the  same  :  grant  we  be- 
seech thee  O  faithful  God  and  Father,  that  through  the 
operation  of  thy  holy  Spirit,  the  commemoration  of  the 
death  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  may  tend  to  the  daily  in- 
crease of  our  faith,  and  saving  fellowship  with  him,  thro* 
Jesus  Christ  thy  Son,  in  whose  name  we  conclude  our 
prayers,  saying,  Our  Father,  &c. 

End  of  the  Administration  of  the  Lord's   Sufifier. 


THE  FORM  OF  EXCOMMUNICATION. 

Beloved  in  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ ;  it  is  known  unto 
you,  that  we  have  several  times,  and  by  several  me- 
thods declared  unto  you  the  great  sin  committed,  and  the 
heinous  offence  given  by  our  fellow-member  N.  to  the 
end  that  he,  by  your  christian  admonition,  and  prayers  to 
God,  might  be  brought  to  repentance,  and  so  be  freed 
from  the  bonds  of  the  devil,  (by  whom  he  is  held  captive) 
and  recovered  by  the  will  of  the  Lord  ;  but  we  cannot  con- 
ceal from  you,  with  great  sorrow,  that  no  one  has  as  yet 
appeared  before  us,  who  hath  in  the  least  given  us  to  un- 
derstand, that  he,  by  the  frequent  admonitions  given  him, 
(as  well  in  private  as  before  witnesses,  and  in  the  presence 
of  many)  is  come  to  any  remorse  for  his  sins,  or  hath 
shewn  the  least  tokens  of  true  repentance  ;  since  then  he 
daily  aggravates  his  sin  (which  in  itself  is  not  small)  by 
his  stubbornness,  and  since  we  have  signified  unto  you 
the  last  time,  that  in  case  he  did  not  repent  after  such  pa- 
tience shewn  him  by  the  church,  we  should  be  under  tire 
disagreeable  necessity  of  being  further  grieved  for  him, 
and  come  to  the  last  remedy  ;  wherefore  we  at  this  present 
are  necessiated  to  proceed  to  this  excommunication  ac- 
cording to  the  command  and  charge  given  us  by  God  in 
his  holy  word';  to  the  end  that  he  may  hereby  be  made 


92  EXCOMMUNICATION. 

(if  possible)  ashamed  of  his  sins,  and  likewise  that  we  may 
not  by  this  rotten  and  as  yet  incurable  member,  put  the 
whole  body  of  the  church  in  danger,  and  that  God's  name 
may  not  be  blasphemed. 

Therefore  we  the  ministers  and  rulers  of  the  church 
of  God,  being  here  assembled  in  the  name  and  authority 
of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  declare  before  you  all,  that  for 
the  aforesaid  reasons  we  have  excommunicated,  and  by 
those  do  excommunicate  N.  from  the  church  of  God,  aad 
from  fellowship  with  Christ,  and  the  holy  sacraments,  and 
from  all  the  spiritual  blessings  and  benefits  which  God 
promiseth  to  and  bestows  upon  his  church,  so  long  as  he 
obstinately  and  impenitently  persists  in  his  sins,  and  is 
therefore  to  be  accounted  by  you  as  an  heathen  man  and 
a  publican,  according  to  the  command  of  Christ,  Mat.  1 8. 
who  saith,  that  whatsoever  his  ministers  shall  bind  on 
earth,  shall  be  bound  in  heaven. 

Further  we  exhort  you  beloved  christians,  to  keep  no 
company  with  him,  that  he  may  be  ashamed  :  yet  count 
him  not  as  an  enemy,  but  at  all  times  admonish  him  as 
you  would  a  brother.  In  the  mean  time  let  every  one 
take  warning  by  this  and  such  like  examples,  to  fear  the 
Lord,  and  diligently  take  heed  unto  himself,  If  he  think- 
cth  he  standeth)  lest  he  fall  ;  but  having  true  fellowship 
with  the  Father  and  his  Son  Jesus  Christ,  together  with 
all  faithful  christians,  remain  stedfast  therein  to  the  end, 
and  so  obtain  eternal  salvation.  You  have  seen,  beloved 
brethren  and  sisters,  in  what  manner  this  our  excommu.- 
nicated  brother  hath  begun  to  fall,  and  by  degrees  is  come 
to  ruin  ;  observe  therefore,  how  subtle  satan  is,  to  bring 
man  to  destruction,  and  to  withdraw  him  from  all  s  dutary 
means  of  salvation  ;  guard  then,  against  the  least  begin- 
nings of  evil,  and  laying  aside,  according  to  the  exhorta- 
tion of  the  apostle,  "  every  weight  and  the  sin  which  does 
"  so  easily  beset  us,  let  us  run  with  patience  the  race  that 
"  is  set  before  us,  looking  unto  Jesus  the  author  and  fi- 
«  nisher  of  our  faith  ;  be  sober,  watch  and  pray,  lest  you 
«  enter  into  temptation.  To -day  if  you  will  hear  the  voice 
"  of  the  Lord,  harden  not  your  hearts,  but  work  out  your 
"  own  salvation  with  fear  and  trembling  ;"  and  every  one 
repent  of  his  sins,  lest  that  our  God  humble  us  again,  and 
that  we  should  be  obliged  to  bewail  some  one  of  you  ;  but 
that  you  may  with  one  accord,  living  in  all  godliness,  be 
our  crown  and  joy  in  the  Lord, 


EXCOMMUNICATION".  9S 

Since  it  is  God  who  worketh  in  us,  both  to  will  and  to 
do  oi*  lus  good  pleasure,  let  us  cull  upon  his  holy  name 
with  confession  of  our  sins,  saying, 

O  righteous  God  and  merciful  Father,  we  bewail 
our  sins  before  thy  high  majesty,  and  acknowledge 
that  we  have  deserved  the  grief  and  sorrow  caused  unto 
us  by  the  cutting  off  of  this  cur  late  fellow  member  ;  yea 
we  all  deserve,  shouldst  thou  enter  into  judgment  with  us, 
by  reason  of  our  great  transgressions,  to  be  cut  off  and 
banished  from  thy  presence.  But  O  Lord  thou  art  mer- 
ciful unto  us  for  Christ's  sake,  forgive  us  our  trespasses, 
for  we  heartily  repent  of  them,  and  daily  work  in  our 
hearts  a  greater  measure  of  sorrow  for  them ;  that  we 
may,  fearing  thy  judgments,  which  thou  executest  against 
the  stiff  necked,  endeavour  to  please  thee:  grant  us  to 
avoid  all  pollution  of  the  world,  and  those  who  are  cut  off 
from  the  communion  of  the  church,  that  we  may  not  make 
ourselves  partakers  of  their  sins  :  and  that  he  who  is  ex- 
communicated may  become  ashamed  of  his  sins  :  and  since 
thou  desirest  not  the  death  of  a  sinner,  but  that  he  may 
repent  and  live,  and  the  bosom  of  thy  church  is  always 
©pen  for  those  who  turn  away  from  their  wickedness  :  we 
therefore  humbly  beseech  thee,  to  kindle  in  our  hearts  a 
pious  zeal,  that  we  may  labour,  with  good  christian  admo- 
nitions and  examples,  to  bring  again  this  excommunicat- 
ed person  on  the  right  way,  together  with  all  those  who 
through  unbelief  or  dissoluteness  of  life  go  astray. 

Give  thy  blessing  to  our  adminitions,  that  we  may  have 
reason  thereby  to  rejoice  again  in  him,  for  whom  we  must 
now  mourn  :  and  that  thy  holy  name  may  be  praised, 
through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who  hath  thus  taught  us 
to  pray,  Our  Father,  fctc. 

The  Form  of  re-admitting  excommunicated  persons 
into  the  church  of  Christ. 

Beloved  in  the  Lord,  it  is  known  unto  you,  that  some 
time  ago  our  fellow  member  N.  was  cut  off  from  the 
church  of  Christ :  we  cannot  now  conceal  from  you,  that 
be,  by  the  above-mentioned  remedy,  as  also  by  means  of 
good  admonitions  and  your  christian  prayers,  is  come  so 
far  that  he  is  ashamed  of  his  sins,  praying  us  to  be  re-ad- 
mitted into  the  communion  of  the  church. 

Since  we  then  by  virtue  of  the  command  of  God,  are  fri 


94  EXCOMMUNICATION. 

duty  bound  to  receive  such  persons  with  joy,  and  it  being 
necessary  that  good  order  should  be  used  therein,  we 
therefore  give  you  to  understand  hereby,  that  we  purpose 
to  loose  again  the  aforementioned  excommunicated  per- 
son from  the  bond  of  excommunication  the  next  time 
when  by  the  grace  of  God  we  celebrate  the  supper  of  the 
Lord,  and  receive  him  again  into  the  communion  of  the 
church  ?  except  any  one  of  you,  in  the  mean  time,  shall 
shew  just  cause  why  this  ought  not  to  be  done,  of  which 
you  must  give  notice  to  us  in  due  time.  In  the  mean 
time,  let  every  one  thank  the  Lord,  for  the  mercy  shewn 
this  poor  sinner,  beseeching  him,  to  perfect  his  work  in 
him  to  his  eternal  salvation.     Amen, 

Jf/ferwards,  if  no  impediment  be  alledged,  the  Minister 
shall  proceed  to  the  re-admission  of  the  excommunicat- 
ed sinner \  in  the  following  manner  : 
Beloved  christians,  we  have  the  last  time  informed  you 
of  the  repentance  of  our  fellow  member  N.  to  the  end 
that  he  might  with  your  fore -knowledge  be  again  received 
into  the  church  of  Christ :  and  whereas  no  one  has  alledg- 
ed  any  tiling  why  his  re-admission  ought  not  to  take  place, 
we  therefore  at  present  purpose  to  proceed  to  the  same. 

Our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  Mat.  Chap.  18,  having  con- 
firmed the  sentence  of  Ms  church,  in  the  excommunicat- 
ing of  impenitent  sinners,  declareth  immediately  thereup- 
on, that  whatsoever  his  ministers  shall  loose  on  earth, 
shall  be  loosed  in  heaven  ;  whereby  he  giyeth  to  under- 
stand, that  when  any  person  is  cut  off  from  his  church, 
he  is  not  deprived  of  all  hopes  of  salvation  ;  but  can  again 
be  loosed  from  the  bonds  of  condemnation.—- Therefore 
since  God  declares  in  his  word,  not  to  take  pleasure  in 
the  death  of  a  sinner,  but  that  he  turn  from  his  wicked- 
ness and  live,  so  the  church  always  hopes  for  the  repent- 
ance of  the  backslidden  sinner,  and  keepeth  her  bosom 
open  to  receive  the  penitent :  accordingly  the  apostle 
Paul,  1  Cor.  5,  commanded  the  Corinthian  (whom  he  had 
declared  ought  to  be  cut  off  from  the  church)  to  be  again 
received  and  comforted,  since  being  reproved  by  many, 
he  was  come  to  the  knowledge  of  his  sins  ;  to  the  end 
that  he  should  not  be  swallowed  up  with  over  much 
sorrow.     2  Cor.  2. 

Secondhj.  Christ  teacheth  us  in  the  aforementioned 
text,  that  the  sentence  of  absolution,  which  is  passed  upon 
such  a  penitent  sinner,  according  to  the  word  of  God,  is 


EXCOMMUNICATION.  95 

counted  sure  and  firm  by  the  Lord  ;  therefore  no  one 
ought  to  doubt  in  the  least,  who  truly  repents,  that  he  is 
assuredly  received  by  God  in  mercy,  as  Christ  s&ith, 
John,  Chap.  20.  V/hosesoever  sins  ye  remit,  they  are 
remitted  unto  them, 

But  now  to  proceed  to  the  matter  in  hand  :  I  ask  thee 
N.  whether  thou  dost  declare  here  with  all  thine  heart  be- 
fore God  and  his  church:  that  thou  art  sincerely  sorry  for 
the  sin  and  stubbornness  for  which  thou  hast  bee#  justly 
cut  off  from  the  church  ?  whether  thou  dost  also  truly 
believe,  that  the  Lord  hath  forgiven  thee,  and  doth  for- 
give thy  sins  for  Christ's  sake,  and  that  thou  therefore 
art  desirous  to  be  re -admitted  into  the  church  of  Christ, 
promising  henceforth  to  live  hi  all  godliness,  according  to 
the  command  of  the  Lord  ? 

Answer Yes,  Verily. 

Then  the  Minister  shall  further  say, 

We  then  here  assembled,  in  the  name  and  authority  of 
the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  declare  thee  N.  to  be  absolved 
from  the  bonds  of  excommunication  ;  and  do  receive  the?; 
again  into  the  church  of  the  Lord,  and  declare  unto  thee 
tliat  thou  art  in  the  communion  of  Christ  and  of  the  holy 
sacraments,  and  of  all  the  spiritual  blessings  and  benefits 
of  God,  which  he  promiseth  to  and  bestowcth  upon  his 
church :  may  the  eternal  God  preserve  thee  therein  to 
the  end,  through  his  only  begotten  Son  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

Be  therefore  assured  in  thy  heart  my  beloved  brother, 
mat  the  Lord  hath  again  received  thee  in  mercy.  Be  de- 
light henceforward  to  guard  thyself  against  the  subtiity  of 
satan,  and  the  wickedness  of  the  world,  to  the  end  that  ycu 
may  not  fall  again  into  sin ;  love  Christ,  for  many  sins  are 
forgiven  thee. 

And  you  beloved  christians,  receive  this  your  brother 
with  hearty  affection  ;  be  glad  that  he  was  dead  and  is 
alive  again,  he  was  lost  and  is  found  :  rejoice  with  the 
Angels  of  heaven,  over  this  sinner  who  repenteth  :  count 
him  no  longer  as  a  stranger,  but  as  a  fellow -citizen  with 
the  saints,  and  of  the  household  of  God. 

And  whereas  we  can  have  no  good  of  ourselves,  let  us 
praising  and  magnifying  the  Lord  Almighty,  implore  his 
mercy,  saying, 

Gracious  God  and  Father,    we  thank  thee  through 
Jesus  Christ,  that  thou  hast  been  pleased  to  give 


96  ORDINATION, 

this  our  fellow  brother  repentance  unto  life,  and  us  cause 
to  rejoice  in  his  conversion.  We  beseech  thee,  shew 
him  my  mercy,  that  he  may  become  more  and  more  as- 
s\u\  '  A  his  mind  of  the  remission  of  his  sins,  and  that  he 
irifiy  receive  from  thence  inexpressible  joy  and  delight,  to 
serve  thee.  And  whereas  he  hath  heretofore  by  his  sins 
offended  many,  grant  that  he  may  by  his  conversion  edify 
many.  Grant  also  that  he  may  stedfastly  walk  in  thy  ways, 
to  the  end ;  and  may  we  learn  from  this  example,  that 
with  thee  is  mercy,  that  thou  mayest  be  feared  ;  and  that 
we  counting  him  for  our  brother  and  co-heir  of  life  eternal. 
Hrfay  jointly  serve"  thee  with  filial  fear  and  obedience  all 
the  days  of  our  life,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,  in 
whose  name  we  thus  conclude  our  prayer. 
Our  Father,  &c. 

The  FORM  for   ORDAIjYIjYG  the  Ministers  of 
God's    Word. 

The  sermon  and  the  usual  prayers  being  finished,  the 
Minister  shall  thus  speak  to  the  congregation. 

Beloved  brethren,  it  is  known  unto  you,  tint  we  have 
now  tit  three  different  times  published  the  name  of  our 
brother  N.  here  present,  to  learn  whether  any  person  had 
aught  to  offer  concerning  his  doctrine  or  life,  why  he 
might  not  be  ordained  to  the  ministry  of  the  word.  And. 
whereas  no  one  hath  appeared  before  us,  who  hath  alledg- 
ed  any  thing  lawful  against  his  person,  we  shall  therefore 
at  present,  in  the  name  of  the  Lord,  proceed  to  his  ordi- 
nation ;  for  which  purpose,  you  N.  and  all  those  who  are 
here  present,  shall  first  attend  to  a  short  declaration  taken 
from  the  word  of  God,  touching  the  institution  and  the 
office  of  pastors  and  ministers  of  God's  word  ;  where,  in 
the  first  place  you  are  to  observe,  that  God  our  heavenly 
Father,  willing  to  call  and  gather  a  church  from  amongst 
the  corrupt  race  of  men  unto  life  eternal,  cloth  by  a  par- 
ticular mark  of  his  favour  use  the  ministry  of  men  therein. 
Therefore  Paul  saith,  that  the  Lord  Jesut,  Christ  hath 
given  some  apostles-,  and  some  prophets,  and  some  wan* 
,  and  o-o?pe  pastors  and  ministers  ;  for  the  perfect' 
ing  tf  the  saints,  for  the  ivork  of  the  ministry,  for  the 
edifying  of  the  body  of  Christ.  Here  we  see  that  the 
holy  Apostle  among  other  things  saith,  that  the  pastoral 
office  is  an  institution  of  Christ. 


ORDINATION.  »7 

What  this  holy  office  enjoins,  may  easily  be  gathered 
from  the  very  name  itself ;  for  as  it  is  the  duty  of  a  com- 
mon shepherd,  to  feed,  guide,  protect  and  rule  the  flock 
committed  to  his  charge  ;  so  it  is  with  regard  to  these 
spiritual  shepherds,  who  are  set  over  the  church,  which 
God  calleth  unto  salvation,  and  counts  them  as  sheep  of 
his  pasture.  The  pasture  with  which  these  sheep  are 
fed,  is  nothing  else  but  the  preaching  of  the  gospel,  ac- 
companied with  prayer,  and  the  administration  of  the  holy  ■ 
sacraments  ;  the  same  word  of  God  is  likewise  the  staff 
with  which  the  flock  is  guided  and  ruled,  consequently 
it  is  evident,  that  the  office  of  pastors  and  ministers  of 
God's  word  is, 

First.  That  they  shall  faithfully  explain  to  their  flock, 
the  word  of  the  Lord,  revealed  by  the  writings  of  the 
prophets  and  the  apostles  ;  and  apply  the  same,  as  well  in 
general,  as  in  particular,  to  the  edification  of  the  hearers, 
with  instructing,  admonishing,  comforting,  and  reproving, 
according  to  every  one's  need,  preaching  repentance  to- 
wards God,  and  reconciliation  with  him  through  faith  in 
Christ;  and  refuting  with  the  holy  scriptures  all  schisms 
and  heresies  which  are  repugnant  to  the  pure  doctrine. 
All  this  is  clearly  signified  to  us  in  holy  writ,  for  the 
Apostle  Paul  saith,  that  these  labour  in  the  word  :  anci 
elsewhere  he  teacheth,  that  this  must  be  done  according 
to  the  measure  or  rule  of  faith  ;  he  writes  also,  tlfet  a 
pastor  must  holdfast  and  rightlij  divide  the  faithful  and 
sincere  word  which  is  according-  to  the  doctrine :  likewise, 
he  that  firofihcsieth  (that  is  preacheth  God's  word)  sjuak- 
cth  unto  men  to  edification,  and  exhortation  and  com- 
fort :  in  another  place  he  proposes  himself  as  a  pattern 
to  pastors,  declaring  that  he  hath  fiublicly,  and  from 
house  to  house,  taught  and  testified  repentance  toward 
God,  and  faith  toward  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  :  but  par- 
ticularly we  have  a  clear  description  of  the  office,  and 
ministers  of  God's  word,  2  Corinth.  5  chap.  18,  19,  and 
20  verses,  where  the  Apostle  thus  speaketh,  "  And  all 
things  are  of  God,  who  hath  reconciled  us  to  himself,  by. 
Jesus  Christ,  and  hath  given  to  us  (namely,  to  the  apos- 
tles and  pastors)  the  ministry  of  reconciliation  ;  to  wit, 
that  God  was  in  Christ,  reconciling  the  world  unto  him- 
self, not  imputing  their  trespasses  unto  them,  and  hath 
committed  unto  us  the  word  of  reconciliation.  Now  then 
we  are  ambassadors  for  Christ,  as  though  God  did  be- 

I 


9|  ORDINATION, 

o^ech  you  by  us  :  we  pray  you  in  Christ's  stead,  be  ye  re- 
conciled to  God."  Concerning  the  refutation  of  false 
doctrine,  the  same  apostle  saith,  Tit  1.9,  "  That  a  min- 
ister must  hold  fast  the  faithful  word  of  God,  that  he  may 
>le  by  sound  doctrine,  both  to  convince  and  silence  the 
g&in-sayers. 

Secondly.  It  is  the  office  of  the  ministers,  publickly  to 
call  upon  the  name  of  the  Lord  in  bchaif  of  the  whole  con- 
gregation ;  for  that  which  the  apostles  say,  wc  will  give 
ourselves  continually  to  prayer  and  to  the  ministry  of  the 
word,  is  common  to  these  pastors  with  the  apostles  ;  to 
which  St.  Paul  alluding,  thus  speakcth  to  Timothy  :  <■•  I 
exhort  therefore,  that  first  of  ail,  supplications,  prayers, 
intercessions,  and  giving  of  thanks  be  made  for  all  men  ; 
for  kings,  and  for  all  that  are  in  authority,  Jkc.  1  Tim. 
2.  1  and  2. 

Thirdly.  Their  office  is,  to  administer  the  sacraments, 
which  the  Lord  hath  instituted  as  seals  of  his  grace  :  as 
is  evident  from  the  command  given  by  Christ  to  the  apos- 
tles, and  in  them  to  all  pastors,  baptise  them  in  the  name 
of the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost. 
likewise,  for  J  have  received  of  the  Lord,  that  which 
also  I  delivered  unto  you,  thai  the  Lord  Jesus  the  same 
night  in  which  he  was  betrayed,  life. 

Finally,  it  is  the  duty  of  the  ministers  of  the  word  to 
keep  the  church  of  God  in  good  discipline,  and  to  govern 
it  in  such  a  manner  as  the  Lord  hath  ordained  ;  for  Christ 
having  spoke  of  the  christian  discipline,  says  to  his  apos- 
tles, whatsoever  ye  shall  bind  on  earth,  shall  be  bound 
in  heaven.  And  Paul  will,  that  the  ministers  know  how 
to  rule  their  own  house,  since  they  otherwise  neither  can 
provide  for,  nor  rule  the  church  of  God.  This  is  the 
reason  why  the  pastors  are  in  scripture  called,  stewards 
of  God  and  biehops,  that  is  overseers  and  watchmen,  for 
they  have  the  oversight  of  the  house  of  God,  wherein  they 
are  conversant,  to  the  end,  that  every  thing  may  be  trans- 
acted with  good  order  and  decency  ;  and  also  to  open  and 
shut,  with  the  keys  of  the  kingdom  of  heaven,  committed 
:o  them,  according  to  the  charge  given  them  by  God. 

From  these  things  may  be  learned,  what  a  glorious 
work  the  ministeral  office  is,  since  so  great  things  are 
effected  by  it ;  yea  how  highly  necessary  it  is  for  man's 
solvation,  which  is  also  the  reason,  why  the  Lord  will, 
that  such  an  office  should  always  remain :  for  Christ  saitf 


ORDINATION.  $.9 

when  he  sent  forth  his  apostles  to  officiate  in  this  holy 
function,  Lo,  I  am  always  with  you  even  unto  the.  end 
of  the  world  ;  where  we  see  his  pleasure  is,  that  this  ho- 
ly office  (for  the  persons  to  whom  he  here  speaketh',  c'ditfd 
not  live  to  the  end  of  the  world)  should  always  be  Main- 
tained on  earth.  And  therefore  Paul  exhorteth  Timothy, 
to  commit  that  which  he  had  heard  of -him,  to  faithful 
men,  who  are  able  to  teach  others,  a-?  he  also,  tiainrtg 
ordained  Titus  minister,  further  commamkd  him,  to  or- 
dain elders  in  every  city.     Tit.  1.  5. 

Forasmuch  thereof  as  wc,  for  the  miaifi-taihing  of  this 
office  in  the  church  of  God,  arc  now  to  ordain  a  new  min-* 
ister  of  the  word,  and  having  sufficiently  spoke  of  the  office 
of  such  persons,  therefore  you  N.  shall  answer  to  tl  e  fol- 
lowing questions,  which  shall  be  proposed  to  you,  to  the 
end  that  it  may  appear  to  all  here  present,  that  thou  art 
inclined  to  accept  of  this  office  as  above  described. 

First.  I  ask  thee,  whether  thou  feelest  in  thy  heart 
that  thou  art  lawfully  called  cf  God's  church,  and  there- 
fore of  God  himself,  to  this  holy  ministry  ? 

Secondly.  Whether  thou  dost-beiieve  the  books  of  the 
old  and  new  testament  to  be  the  only  word  of  God,  and 
the  perfect  doctrine  unto  salvation,  and  dost  reject  all 
doctrines  repugnant  thereto  ? 

Thirdly.  Whether  thou  dost  promise  faithfully  to  dis- 
charge your  office,  according  to  the  same  doctrine  as 
above  described,  and  to  adorn  it  with  a  godly  life  :  also  to 
submit  thyself  in  case  thou  shouldest  become  delinquent 
either  in  life  or  doctrine,  to  ecclesiastical  admonition,  ac- 
cording to  the  public  ordinance  cf  the  churches  ? 

Answer.     Yes,  truly,  with  all  my  heart. 
Then  the  minister  who  did  demand  those    questions  cf 

/vj;;2,   or  another,  if  their  are  more  present,  shall  lay 

his1*  hands  on  his  head,  and  say, 
Pod  cur  heavenly  Father,  who  hath  called  thee  to  this 
^-*  holy  ministry,  enlighten  thee  with  his  Holy  Spirit, 
strengthen  thee  with  his  hand,  and  so  govern  thee  in  thy 
ministry;  that  thou  mayest  decently  and  fruitfully  walk 
therein,  to  the  glory  of  his  name,  und  the  propagation  of 
the  kingdom  of  his  Son  Jesus  Christ,     Amen. 

*  This  ceremony  shall  not  be  used  in  ordaining  those,  who  ha\e 
before  been  in  the  ministry. 


100  , ORDINATION. 

Then  the  Minister  <sha!>  from  the  fiul/iit,  exhort  the  op± 

daiv.«d  Minister,  und  i  hi;  congregation,  in  the  following 

ma  fner  : 
"  HP  l  therefore,  beloved  brother,  and  fellow  ser- 

J-  vunt  in  Christ,  unto  yourself  and  to  all  the  flock, 
over  which  the  Holy  Ghost  hath  made  you  overseer,  to 
the  church  of  God  which  he  hath  purchased  with  his 
€>wn  blood :  love  Christ,  and  feed  his  sheep,  taking  the 
oversight  of  them  not  by  constraint,  but  willingly  :  not  for 
filthy  lucre,  but  of  a  ready  mind,  neither  as  being  lord  over 
God's  heritage,  but  as  an  example  to  the  flock.  Be  an  ex- 
ample of  believers,  in  word,  in  conversation,  in  charity,  in 
spirit,  in  faith,  in  purity.  Give  attendance  to  reading,  to 
exhortation,  to  doctrine.  Neglect  not  the  gift  that  is  in 
thee,  meditate  upon  those  things,  give  thyself  wholly  to 
them  ;  that  thy  profiting  may  appear  to  all,  take  heed  to 
thy  doctrine,  and  continue  stedfast  therein.  Bear  patient- 
ly all  sufferings  and  oppressions  as  a  good  soldier  of  Jesus 
Christ,  for  in  doing 'this  thou  shalt  both  save  thyself  and 
them  that  hear  thee;  And  when  the  chief  Shepherd  shalt 
appear,  you  shall  receive  a  crown  of  glory  thatfadeth  not 
away." 

"  And  ycu  likewise,  beloved  Christians,  receive  this 
your  minister  in  the  Lord  with  all  gladness,  "and  hold  such 
in  reputation:"  Remember  that  God  himself  through  him 
ypeaketh  unto  and  beseecheth  you.  Receive  the  word 
which  he  according  to  the  scripture  shall  preach  unto  you, 
<•  not  as  the  word  of  man,  but  (as  is  in  truth)  the  word  of 
God.  Let  the  feet  of  those  that  preach  the  gospel  of 
peace,  and  bring  glad  tidings  of  good  things,  be  beautiful 
and  pleasant  unto  you.  Obey  them  that  have  the  rule  over 
you,  and,  submit  yourselves  ;  for  they  watch  for  your 
\ouls,  as  they  that  must  give  account,  that  they  may  do  it 
with  joy,  and  not  with  grief,  for  that  is  unprofitable  for 
you.  If  you  do  these  things  it  shall  come  to -pass,  that  the 
peace  of  God  snail  enter  into  your  houses,  and  that  you 
who  receive  this  man  in  the  name  of  a  prophet,  shall  re- 
ceive a  prophet's  reward,  and  through  his  preaching, 
believing  in  Christ,  shall  through  Christ  inherit  life 
eternal;" 

Since  no  man  is  of  himself  fit  for  any  of  these  things, 
let  us  cull  upon  God  with  thanksgiving  : 

Merciful  Father,  we  thank  thee  that  itpleaseth  thee, 
by  the  ministry  of  men,  to  gather  a  church  to  thy- 


ORDINATION.  itfl 

self  unto  life  eternal,  from  amongst  the  lost  children  of 
men  :  we  bless  thee  for  so  graciously  providing  the  clinch 
in  this  place  with  a  faithful  minister,  we  beseech  thee  to 
qualify  him  daily  more  and  more  by  the  holy  spirit,  for 
the  ministry  to  which  thou  hast  ordained  and  called  him  ; 
enlighten  his  understanding  to  comprehend  thy  holy  word, 
and  give  him  utterance,  that  he  may  boldly  open  his 
mouth,  to  make  known  and  dispense  the  mysteries  of  the 
gospel.  Endue  him  with  wisdom  and  valour,  to  rule  the 
people  aright  over  which  he  is  set,  and  to  preserve  them 
in  christian  peace,  to  the  end  that  thy  chuich  under  his 
administration  and  by  his  good  example,  may  increase  in 
number  and  in  virtue.  Grant  him  courage  to  bear  the 
difficulties  and  troubles  which  he  may  meet  with  in  his 
ministry,  that  being  strengthened  by  the  comfort  of  thy 
spirit,  he  may  remain  stedfast  to  the  end,  and  be  received 
with  all  faithful  servants  into  the  joy  of  his  master.  Give 
thy  grace  also  to  this  people  and  church,  that  they  may 
becomingly  deport  themselves  towards  this  their  minis- 
ter ;  that  they  may  acknowledge  him  to  be  sent  of  thee  ; 
that  they  may  receive  his  doctrine  with  all  reverence  and 
submit  themselves  to  his  exhortations.  To  the  end  that 
they  may  by  his  word,  believing  in  Christ,  be  made  par- 
takers of  eternal  life.  Hear  us,  O  Father,  through  thy 
beloved  Son,  who  hath  thus  taught  us  to  pray, 
Our  Father,  Sec. 
End  of  the  form  for  ordaining  Ministers* 

The  Forynfor  ordaining  Elders  and  Deacons,  <ivhe?i  or- 
dained at  the  same  time.  But  if  they  are  ordained  se- 
parately,  this  form  shall  be  used  as  occasion  requires. 

Beloved  Christians,  you  know  that  we  have  several 
times  published  unto  you  the  names  of  our  brethren 
here  present,  who  are  chosen  to  the  office  of  t lders  and 
deacons  in  this  church,  to  the  end  that  we  might  know 
whether  any  person  had  aught  to  alledge  why  they  should 
not  be  ordained  in  their  respective  offices;  and  whereas 
no  one  hath  appeared  before  us,  who  hath  ailed ged  any 
thing  lawful  against  them,  we  shall  therefore  at  present 
in  the  name  of  the  Lord,  proceed  to  their  ordination. 

But  first,  you  who  are  to  be  ordained,  and  all  those 
who  are  here  present,  shall  attend  to  a  short  declaration 
from  the  word  of  God  concerning  the  institution  and  the 

I? 


102  ORDINATION. 

office  of  elders  and  deacons  :  of  the  elders  is  to  be  observ- 
ed, that  the  word  elder  or  eldest  (which  is  taken  out  of 
the  old  testament,  and  signifieth  a  person  who  is  placed 
in  an  honourable  office  of  government  over  others)  rs  ap- 
plied to  two  sorts  of  persons  who  minister  in  the  church 
of  Jesus  Christ :  for  the  apostle  saith  "  the  elders  that 
"  rule  well,  shall  be  counted  worthy  of  double  honour, 
"  especially  they  who  labour  in  the  word  and  doctrine." 
Hence  is  evident  that  there  were  two  sorts  of  elders  in  the 
Apostolic  church,  the  former  whereof  did  labour  in  the 
word  and  doctrine,  and  the  latter  did  not.  The  first  were 
the  ministers  of  the  word  and  pastors,  who  preached  the 
gospel  and  administered  the  sacraments  ;  but  the  others 
who  did  not  labour  in  the  word,  and  still  did  serve  in  the 
church,  bore  a  particular  office,  namely,  they  had  the 
oversight  of  the  church,  and  ruled  the  same  with  the  mi- 
nisters of  the  word:  for  Paul,  Rom.  chap.  12.  having 
spoke  of  the  ministry  of  the  word,  and  also  of  the  office 
of  distribution  or  deacon  ship,  speaketh  afterwards  parti- 
cularly of  this  office,  saying  :  "  he  that  ruleth,  let  him 
"  do  it  with  diligence  :"  likewise  in  another  place  he 
counts  government  among  the  gifts  and  offices  which  God 
hath  instituted  in  the  church  :  1  Cor.  12.  Thus  we  see 
that  these  sorts  of  ministers  are  added  to  the  others  who 
preach  the  gospel,  to  aid  and  assist  them,  as  in  the  old 
testament  the  common  Levitcs  were  to  the  priests  in  the 
service  of  the  tabernacle,  in  those  things  which  they  could 
not  perform  alone  :  notwithstanding  the  offices  always  re- 
mained distinct  one  from  the  other.  Moreover  it  is  pro- 
per tnat  such  men  should  be  joined  to  the  ministers  of  the 
word  in  the  government  of  the  church  to  the  end,  that 
thereby  all  tyranny  and  lording  may  be  kept  out  of  the 
church  of  God,  which  can  sooner  creep  in  when  the  go- 
vernment is  placed  in  the  hands  of  one  alone,  or  a  very 
few.  An^l  thus  the  ministers  of  the  word,  together  with 
the  elders,  form  a  body  or  assembly,  being  as  a  council 
of  the  church,  representing  the  whole  church  ;  to  vhich 
Christ  alludes  when  he  saith,  "  Tell  the  church" — which 
ean  in  no  wise  be  understood  of  all  and  every  member  of 
the  church  in  particular,  but  very  properly  of  those  who 
govern  the  church,  out  of  which  they  are  chosen. 

Therefore  "in  the  first  place  the  office  of  the  elders  is, 
together  with  the  ministers  of  the  word,  to  take  the  over- 
sight of  the  church  which  is  committed  to  them,  and  dili- 


ORDINATION.  1(U 

gently  to  look,  whether  every  one  properly  deports  him- 
self in  his  confession  unci  conversation  ;  to  admonish  those 
who  behave  themselves  disorderly,  and  to  prevent  as  much 
as  possible,  that  the  sacraments  be  not  profaned  :  also  to 
act  (according  to  the  christian  discipline)  against  the  im- 
penitent, and  to  receive  the  penitent  again  into  the  bosom 
©f  the  church  ,  as  doth  not  only  appear  from  the  above- 
mentioned  saying  of  Christ,  but  also  from  many  other 
places  of  holy  writ,  as  1  Cor.  chap.  5.  and  2  Cor.  chap.  2. 
that  these  tilings  are  not  only  intrusted  to  one  or  two  per- 
sons, but  to  many  who  are  ordained  thereto. 

Secondly.  Since  the  apostle  enjoineth,  that  all  things 
shall  be  done  decently  and  in  order,  amongst  christians, 
and  that  no  other  persons  ought  to  serve  in  the  church  of 
Christ  but  those  who  are  lawfully  called,  according  to  the 
christian  ordinance,  therefore  it  is  also  the  duty  of  the  el- 
ders to  pay  regard  to  it,  and  in  all  occurrences,  which  are 
relative  to  the  welfare  and  good  order  of  the  church,  to 
be  assistant  with  their  good  counsel  and  advice,  to  the 
ministers  of  the  word,  yea,  also  to  serve  all  christians 
with  advice  and  consolation. 

Thirdly.  It  is  also  their  duty  particularly  to  have  re- 
gard unto  the  doctrine  and  conversation  of  the  ministers 
of  the  word,  to  the  end  that  all  things  may  be  directed  to 
the  edification  of  the  church ;  and  that  no  strange  doc- 
trine be  taught,  according  to  that  which  we  read,  Acts  20, 
where  the  apostle  exhorteth  to  watch  diligently  against 
the  wolves  who  might  come  into  the  sheep-fold  of  Christ : 
for  the  performance  of  which,  the  elders  are  in  duty  bound 
diligently  to  search  the  word  of  God,  and  continually  to 
be  meditating  on  the  mysteries  of  faith. 

Concerning  the  Deacons  ;  of  the  origin  and  institution 
of  their  office  we  may  read,  Acts  6,  where  we  find  that 
the  apostles  themselves  did  in  the  beginning  serve  the 
poor,  u  At  whose  feet  was  brought  the  price  of  the  things 
"  that  were  sold  :  and  distribution  was  made  unto  every 
"  man  according  as  he  had  need.  But  afterwards  when  a 
"  murmuring  arose,  because  the  widows  of  the  Grecians 
"  were  neglected  in  the  daily  ministration  :"  men  were 
chosen  (by  the  advice  of  the  apostles)  who  should  make 
the  service  of  the  poor  their  peculiar  business,  to  the  end 
that  the  apostles  might  continually  give  themselves  to 
prayer,  and  to  the  ministpy  of  the  word.  And  this  has 
been  continued  from  that  time  forward  in  the  church*  as- 


.104  ORDINATION. 

appears  from  Rom.  12.  Where  the  apostle  speaking  of 
this  office,  saitii,  «  he  that  giveth,  let  him  do  it  with  sim- 
plicity." And  1  Cor.  12.  28,  speaking  of  helps,  he  means 
those  who  are  appointed  in  the  church  to  help  and  assist 
the  poor  and  indigent  in  time  of  need;  from  which  pas- 
sages we  may  easily  gather,  what  the  deacons'  office  is, 
namely,  that  they  in  the  first  place  collect  and  preserve 
with  the  greatest  fidelity  and  diligence,  the  alms  and  goods 
which  are  given  to  the  poor  :  yea,  to  do  their  utmost  en- 
deavours, that  many  good  means  be  procured  for  the  re- 
lief of  the  poor. 

The  second  part  of  their  office  consists  in  distribution, 
wherein  is  not  only  required  discretion  and  prudence  to 
bestow  the  alms  only  on  objects  of  charity,  but  also  cheer- 
fulness and  simplicity  to  assist  the  poor  with  compassion 
and  hearty  affection  :  as  the  apostle  requires,  Rom.  chap. 
12,  and  2  Cor.  chap.  9.  For  which  end  it  is  very  benefi- 
cial that  they  do  not  only  administer  relief  to  the  poor  and 
indigent  with  external  gifts,  but  also  with  comfortable 
words  from  scripture. 

To  the  end  therefore,  beloved  brethren  N.  N.  that  every 
one  may  hear,  that  you  are  willing  to  take  your  respective 
officesupon  you,  ye  shall  answer  to  the  following  questions. 
And  in  the  first  place  I  ask  you,  both  elders  and  deacons, 
whether  ye  do  not  feel  in  your  hearts,  that  ye  arc  lawful- 
ly called  of  God's  church,  and  consequently  of  God  him- 
self to  these  your  respective  holy  offices  ? 

Secondly.  Whether  ye  believe  the  books  of  the  old  and 
new  testament  to  be  the  only  word  of  God,  and  the  perfect 
doctrine  of  salvation,  and  do  reject  all  doctrines  repug- 
nant thereto  ? 

Thirdly.  Whether  ye  promise,  agreeable  to  said  doc- 
trine, faithfully  according  to  your  ability,  to  discharge 
your  respective  offices,  as  it  is  here  described  :  ye  ciders 
in  the  government  of  the  church  together  with  the  minis- 
ters of  the  word :  and  ye  deacons  in  the  ministration  to 
the  poor  ?     TTo  ye  also  jointly  promise  to  walk  in  all  god- 
liness, and  to  submit  yourselves,  in  case  ye  should  become 
remiss  in  your  duty,  to  the  admonitions  of  the  church. 
Upon  which  they  shall  answer  Yes. 
Then  tie  Minister  shall  say^ 
The  Almighty  God  and  Father,  replenish  you  all  with 
his  grace,  that  ye  may  faithfully  and  fruitfully  discharge 
your  respective  offices,  Amen. 


ORDINATION.  103 

The  Minister  shall  further  exhort  them,  and   the  whole 
co?rgregation  in  the  following  manner. 

Therefore  ye  elders  be  diligent  in  the  government  o 
the  church,  which  is  committed  to  you,  and  the  ministers 
of  the  word.  Be  also  as  watchmen  over  the  house  avid  ci- 
ty of  God,  faithfully  to  admonish  and  to  caution  every  one 
against  his  ruin.  Take  heed  that  purity  of  doctrine  and 
godliness  of  life  be  maintained  in  the  church  of  God.  And 
ye  deacons  be  diligent  in  collecting  the  alms,  prudent  and 
cheerful  in  the  distribution  of  the  same  :  assist  the  op- 
pressed, provide  for  the  true  widows  and  orphans,  shew 
liberality  unto  all  men,  but  especially  to  the  household  of 
faith. 

Be  ye  all  with  one  accord  faithful  in  your  offices  and 
hold  the  mystery  of  the  faith  in  a  pure  conscience,  being 
good  examples  unto  all  the  people,  in  so  doing  you  will 
purchase  to  yourselves  a  good  degree,  and  great  boldness 
in  the  faith,  which  is  in  Christ  Jesus,  and  hereafter 
enter  into  the  joy  of  your  Lord.  On  the  other  hand,  be- 
loved christians  receive  these  men  as  servants  of  God ; 
count  the  elders  that  rule  well,  worthy  of  double  honor, 
give  yourselves  willingly  to  their  inspection  and  govern- 
ment. Provide  the  deacons  with  good  means  to  assist  the 
indigent.  Be  charitable,  ye  rich,  give  liberally,  and  con- 
tribute willingly.  And  ye  poor,  be  poor  in  spirit,  and 
deport  yourselves  respectfully  towards  your  benefactors, 
be  thankful  to  them  and  avoid  murmuring  ;  follow  Christ 
for  the  food  of  your  souls,  but  not  for  bread.  Let 
him  that  hath  stole  (or  who  hath  been  burthensome  to  his 
neighbours)  steal  no  more:  but  rather  let  him  fabour, 
working  with  his  hands  the  things  which  are  good,  that 
he  may  give  to  them  that  needeth.  Each  of  you  doing 
these  things  in  your  respective  callings,  shall  receive  of 
the  Lord,  the  reward,  of  righteousness.  But  since  we  are 
unable  of  ourselves,  let  us  call  upon  the  name  of  the  Lord, 
saying, 

f~\  Lop.d  God  and  heavenly  Father,  we  thank  thee  that 
^-^  it  hath  pleased  thee,  for  the  better  edification  of  thy 
church,  to  ordain  in  it,  besides  the  ministers  of  the  word, 
rulers  and  assistants,  by  whom  thy  church  may  be  pre- 
served in  peace  and  prosperity,  and  the  indigent  assisted; 
and  that  thou  hast  at  present  granted  us  in. this  place, 
men  who  are  of  good  testimony,  and  we  hope  endowed 
with  thy  spirit.     We  beseech  thee  replenish  thejn  more 


106  MATRIMONY. 

and  more  with  such  gifts,  as  are  necessary  for  them  in 
their  ministration  ;  with  the  gifts  of  wisdom,  courage, 
discretion,  and  benevolence,  to  the  end  that  every  one  may 
in  his  respective  office,  acquit  himself  as  is  becoming  ; 
the  elders  in  taking  diligent  heed  unto  the  doctrine  and 
conversation,  in  keeping  out  the  wolves  from  the  sheep- 
fold  of  thy  beloved  Son  ;  and  in  admonishing  and  reprov- 
ing disorderly  persons.  In  like  manner,  the  deacons  in 
carefully  receiving  and  liberally,  and  prudently  distribut- 
ing of  the  alms  to  the  poor,  and  in  comforting  them  with 
thy  holy  word.  Give  grace  both  to  the  elders  and  deacons, 
that  they  may  persevere  in  their  faithful  labour,  and  never 
become  weary  by  reason  of  any  trouble,  pain  or  persecu- 
tion of  the  world.  Grant  also  especially  thy  divine  grace 
to  this  people,  over  whom  they  are  placed,  that  they  may 
willingly  submit  themselves  to  the  good  exhortations  of 
the  elders,  counting  them  worthy  of  honor  for  their  work's 
sake  ;  give  also  unto  the  rich,  liberal  hearts  towards  the 
poor,  and  to  the  poor  grateful  hearts  towards  those  who 
help  and  serve  them  ;  to  the  end  that  every  one  acquitting 
himself  oi  his  duty,  thy  holy  name  may  thereby  he  magni- 
fied, and  the  kingdom  of  thy  Son  Jesus  Christ,  enlarged, 
in  whose  nume  we  conclude  our  prayers,  Sec. 

THE  FORM  FOR  THE  CONFIRMATION  OF 
MARRIAGE,  BEFORE  THE  CHURCH. 

Whereas  married  persons  are  generally,  by  reason  of 
sin,  subject  to  many  troubles  and  afflictions  ;  to  the 
end  that  you  N.  and  N.  (who  desire  to  have  your  mar- 
riage bond  publickly  confirmed,  here  in  the  name  of  God, 
before  this  church)  may  idso  be  assured  in  your  hearts  of 
the  certain  assistance  of  God  in  your  afflictions,  hear 
therefore  from  the  word  of  God,  how  honorable  the  mar- 
ried state  is,  and  that  it  is  an  institution  of  God,  which 
is  pleasing  to  him.  Wherefore  he  also  will  (as  he  hath 
promised)  bless  and  assist  the  married  persons,  and  on 
'the  contrary  judge  and  punish  whoremongerers  and  adul- 
terers. 

In  the  first  place  you  are  to  know,  that  God  our  Father 
(after  he  had  created  heaven  and  earth,  and  all  that  in 
them  is)  made  man  in  his  own  image  and  likeness,  that  he 
should  have  dominion  over  the  beasts  of  the  field,  over  the 
fish  of  the  sea,  and  over  the  fowls  of  the  air.     And  after 


MATRIMONY.  107 

he  hud  created  man,  he  said,  "  It  is  not  good  that  man 
should  be  alone,  I  will  make  him  an  help  meet  for  him. 
And  the  Lord  caused  a  deep  sleep  to  tall  upon  Adam,  and 
he  slept,  and  he  took  one  of  his  ribs,  and  closed  up  the 
flesh  instead  thereof.  And  the  rib  which  the  Lord  God 
had  taken  from  man,  made  he  a  woman,  and  brought  her 
unto  the  man.  And  Adam  said,  this  is  now  bone  of  my 
bone,  and  flesh  of  my  flesh  :  she  shall  be  called  woman, 
because  she  was  taken  out  of  man.  Therefore  shall  a 
man,  leave  his  father,  and  his  mother,  and  shall  cleave  un- 
to his  wife,  and  they  two  shall  be  one  flesh."  Therefore 
ye  are  not  to  doubt  but  that  the  married  state  is  pleasing 
to  the  Lord,  since  he  made  unto  Adam  his  wife,  brought 
and  gave  her  himself  to  him  to  be  his  wife  ;  witnessing 
thereby  that  he  doth  yet  as  with  his  hand  bring  unto  every 
man  his  wife.  For  this  reason  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ  did 
also  highly  honor  it  with  his  presence,  gifts  and  miracles- 
in  Cana  of  Galilee,  to  shew  thereby,  that  this  holy  state 
ought  to  be  kept  honorable  by  all,  and  that  he  will  aid  and 
assist  the  married  persons  even  when  they  are  least  ex- 
pecting it.  But  that  you  may  live  godly  in  this  state,  you 
must  know  the  reasons  wherefore  God  hath  instituted  the 
same.  The  first  reason  is,  that  each  faithfully  assist  the 
other,  in  all  things  that  belong  to  this  life,  and  a  better. 

Secondly.  That  they  bring  up  the  children  which  they 
shall  get,  in  the  true  knowledge  and  fear  of  God,  to  his 
glory,  and  their   salvation. 

Thirdly.  That  each  of  them  avoiding  all  uncleanness 
and  evil  lusts,  may  live  with  a  good  and  quiet  conscience. 

For  to  avoid  fornication,  let  every  Man  have  his  oivn, 
wife,  ana  every  Wife  her  own  husband ;  insomuch  that 
all  who  are  come  to  their  years,  and  have  not  the  gift  of 
continence,  are  bound  by  the  command  of  God,  to  enter 
into  the  marriage  state,  with  knowledge  and  consent  of  pa- 
rents, or  tutors  and  friends  ;  that  so  the  temple  of  God, 
which  is  our  body,  may  not  be  defied,  for,  whosoever  de- 
fileth   the  temfile  of  God,  him  shall  God  destroy. 

Next,  you  arc  to  know,  how  each  is  bound  to  behave 
respectively  towards  the  other,  according  to  the  wo.dof 
God. 

First.  You  who  are  the  bridegroom,  shall  know,  that 
God  hath  set  you  to  be  the  head  of  your  wife,  that  you, 
according  to  your  ability,  shall  lead  her  with  discretion  ; 
instructing,  comforting,  protecting  her,  as  the  head  rules 


.108  '        MATRIMONY. 

the  body  ;  yea,  as  Christ  is  the  head,  wisdom,  consolation 
and  ass  stance  to  his  church.  Besides,  you  are  to  love 
your  wife  as  your  own  body,  as  Christ  hath  loved  his 
church  :  you  shall  nat  be  bitter  against  her,  but  dwell 
with  her  as  a  man  of  understanding,  giving  honour  to  the 
wife  as  the  weaker  -vessel,  considering  that  ye  are  joint 
/;eirs  of  the  grace  of  life,  that  your  Jiraycrs  be  not  hin- 
dered :  and  since  it  is  God's  command,  "  that  the  man 
"  shall  eat  his  bread  in  the  sweat  of  his  face,"  therefore 
you  are  to  labour  diligently  and  faithfully,  in  the  calling 
wherein  God  hath  set  you,  that  you  may  maintain  your 
household  honestly,  and  likewise  have  something  to  give 
to  the  poor. 

In  like  manner  shall  you,  who  are  the  bride,  know  how 
you  are  to  carry  yourself  towards  your  husband,  according 
10  the  word  of  God  :  you  are  to  love  your  lawful  h  asband, 
to  honour  and  fear  him,  as  also  to  be  obedient  unto  him 
in  all  lawkil  things,  as  to  your  Lord,  "  as  the  body  is  obe- 
"  dient  to  the  head,  and  the  church  to  Christ.  You  shall 
"  not  exercise  any  dominion  over  your  husband,  but  be  si- 
"lent:  for  Adam  was  first  created,  and  then  Eve  to  be 
u  an  help  to  Adam  j"  and  ofter  the  fall,  God  said  to  Eve, 
and  in  her  to  all  women,  "  your  will  shall  be  subject  t® 
"  your  husband  :"  you  shall  not  resist  this  ordinance  of 
God,  but  be  obedient  to  the  word  of  God,  and  foilow  the 
examples  of  godly  women,  who  trusted  in  God,  and  were 
subject  to  their  husbands  ;  "  as  Sarah  was  obedient  to 
«  Abraham,  calling  him  her  lord :"  you  shall  also  be  an 
help  to  your  husband  in  all  good  and  lawful  things  looking 
to  your  family,  and  walking  in  all  honesty  and  virtue,  with- 
out worldly  pride,  that  you  may  give  an  example  to  others 
of  modesty. 

Wherefore  you  N.  and  you  N.  having  now  undestood 
that  God  hath  instituted  marriage,  and  what  he  commands 
you  therein  ;  are  ye  willing  thus  to  behave  yourselves  in 
this  holy  state,  as  you  here  do  confess  before  this  christian 
assembly,  and  are  desirous  that  you  be  confirmed  in  the 
same  ? 

Answer.     Yes. 
Whereufion  the  minister  shall  say  to  the  assembly, 

I  take  you  all  who  arc  met  here  to  witness,  that  there  is 
brought  no  lawful  impediment : 

Further  to  the  married  persons, 

Since  then  it  is  fit  that  you  be  furthered  in  this  your 


MATRIMONY. 
work,  the  Lord  God  confirm  your  purpose,  whi 
given  vow ;  nd  your  beginning  be  in  the  name  of  the  1 
who  made  heaven  and  earth. 

Hereupon  they  shall  join  hands  together,  and  the  mini 
speak  Jirst  to  the  bridegroovi. 

N.  Do  you  acknowledge  here  before  God,  and  ton 
holy  church,  that  you  have  taken,  and  do  you  take  to 
lawful  wile  N.  here  '.resent,  promising  her  never  to 
sake  her;  to  love  her  faithfully,  to  maintain  her3  ■ 
ful  and  pious  husband  is  bound  to  do  to  his  lawful    \ 
that  you  wiH  live  holiiy  with  her;  keeping  faith 
to  her  in  all  things  according  to  the  holy  gosp: 

Answer.  Yes. 

Aftervjards  to  the  bride. 

N.  Do  you  acknowledge  here  before  God,  andjthi 
holy  church,  that  you  have  taken,  and  do  take  to  you 
ful  husband  N.  here  present,  promising  to  be  ebedi< 
him,  to  serve  and  a.ssist  him,  never  to  forsake  him,  to  live 
hciiiy  with   him,  keeping  faith   and  truth  to  him  in  all 
things,  as  a  pious  and  faithful  wife  is  bound  to  her  i. 
husband  according  to  the  holy  gospel  ? 

Answer.     Yes. 

Then  the  minister  shall  sai/y 
The  father  of  ail  mercies,  who  of  his  grace  hath  called 
you  to  this  holy  state  of  marriage,  bind  you  in  true  love 
and  faithfulness,  and  grant  you- his  blessing.     Amen. 

Hear  now  from  the  gospel,  how  firm  the  bond  of  mar- 
riage is,  as  described,  Matthew,  chap.  xix.  verses  3, 
4,  5,  6,  7,  8,  9. 

"  The  Pharisees  came  unto  him,  tempting  him,- and  say- 
ing unto  him,  is  it  lawful  for  a  man  to  put  away  his  wife  for 
every  cause  ?  and  he  answered  and   said  unto  them,  In  - 
ye  not  read,  that  he  which  made  them  at  the  beginri: 
made  thern  male  and  female  ?  and  said,  for  this  cause 
a  man  leave  father  and  mother  and  shall  cleave  to  his 
and  they  twain  shall  be  one  flesh  ;    wherefore  they  ai 
more  twain,  but  one  flesh.    What  therefore  God  hath 
cd  together,  let  not  man  put  asunder.    They  say  r 
why  did  Moses  then  command  to  give  a  writing  of  divorce- 
ment, and  to  put  her  away  ?  he  saith  unto  them,  Moses, 
because  of  the  hardness  of  your  hearts,    suffered  you  to 
put  away  your  wives  ;  but  from  the  b<  it  was  not 

so.     Ard.  to  you,   wnosoever  shall  put 

K 


*|?  MATRIMONY. 

wife,  except  it  be  for  fornication,  and  shall  marry  another, 
committeth  adultery  :  and  whoso  marrieth  her  which  is 
put  away,  doth  commit  adultery." 

Beiieve  these  words  of  Christ,  and  be  certain  and  assur- 
ed, that  our  Lord  God  hath  joined  you  together  in  this 
holy  state.  You  are  therefore  to  receive  whatever  befals 
you  therein  with  patience  and  thanksgiving,  as  from  the 
hand  of  God,  and  thus  all  things  will  turn  in  your  advan- 
tage and  salvation,  Amen. 

Then  the  Minister  shall  bid  the  married  fiersons  to  kneel 
down,  and  exhort  the  congregation  to  pray  for  them. 

Almighty  God,  thou  who  displayest  thy  goodness  and 
wisdom  in  all  thy  works  and  ordinances,  and  hast  said 
from  the  beginning,  that  it  is  not  good  that  man  should  be 
alone,  and  therefore  hast  made  an  help  meet  for  him,  and 
ordained,  that  those  who  were  two  should  be  one,  and  like- 
wise punishest  all  uncleanness.  We  beseech  thee  (since 
thou  hast  called  these  two  persons  to  the  holy  state  of  mar- 
riage, and  joined  them  together)  replenish  them  with  thy 
holy  spirit,  that  they  may  piously  live  together  according  to 
thy  divine  will  in  true  and  firm  faith,  and  resist  all  wick- 
edness. Vouchsafe  to  bless  them,  as  thou  didst  send  thy 
blessing  upon  the  faithful  fathers,  thy  friends  and  servants, 
Abraham,  Isaac  and  Jacob  ;  that  they  may  as  co-heirs  of 
the  covenant  (which  thou  didst  make  with  their  fathers) 
educate  the  children  which  thou  shalt  be  pleased  to  give 
them,  in  all  godliness,  to  the  glory  of  thy  holy  name,  to 
the  edification  of  thy  church,  and  to  the  propagation  of  thy 
holy  gospel.  Hear  us,  O  Father  of  mercies  !  lor  Jesus 
Christ's  sake,  thy  beloved  Son  our  Lord,  in  whose  name 
we  conclude  our  prayers,  saying,  Our  Father,  Sec. 

Hearken  now  to  the  promise  of  God,  from  Psalm  128. 

Blessed  is  every  one  that  feareth  the  Lord,  that  walketh 
in  his  ways. 

For  thou  shalt  eat  the  labour  of  thine  hands  ;  happy  shalt 
thou  be,  and  it  shall  be  well  with  thee. 

Thy  wife  shall  be  as  a  fruitful  vine  by  the  sides  of  thine 
house;  thy  children  like  olive  plants,  round  about  thy  table. 

Behold,  that  thus  shall  the  man  be  blessed,  that  search 
the  Lord. 

The  Lord  shall  bless  thee  out  of  Zion  ;  and  thou  shalt 
see  the  good  of  Jerusalem  all  the  days  of  thy  life. 


CONSOLATION  OF  THE  SICK.  Ill 

Yea  thou  shalt  see   thy  children's  children,  and  peace 

upon  Israel. 

The  Lord  our  God  replenish  you  with  his  grace,  and 

grant,  that  ye  may  long  live  together  in  all  godliness  and 

holiness,  Amen.    , 

End  of  the  Form  for  the  Confirmation  of  Marriage. 


The  Consolation  of  the  Sick,  which  is  an  instruction 
in  faith-,  and  the  way  of salvation,  to  prepare  believers 
to  die  willingly. 

Since  Adam  was  created  just  and  good,  that  is  to  say, 
holy  and  righteous,  and  dominion  given  him  over  all 
the  creatures  which  God  had  created;  and  whereas  he  did 
not  long  remain  in  this  state,  but  has  through  the  suhtilty 
of  the  devil  and  his  own  rebellion  fallen  from  this  excellent 
glory,  whereby  he  hath  brought  upon  us  the  misery  cf 
temporal  and  eternal  death  :  this  is  the  original  tin  cf 
which  David  speaks  in  the  5  1  st  Psalm,  saying,  "I was  sha- 
pen  in  iniquity  and  in  sin  did  my  mother  conceive  me  :" 
Ps.  51.5.  In  like  manner  Paul  saith  to  the  Romans,  "  that 
by  one  man  sin  entered  into  the  world,  and  death  by  sin, 
and  death  passed  upon  all  men,  for  that  all  have  sinned," 
Rom.  5.12.  For  as  soon  as  Adam  was  thus  fallen,  he  im- 
mediately came  under  a  certain  curse,  as  we  read  in  Gen- 
esis, where  God  saith,  "cursed  is  the  ground  for  thy  sake, 
in  sorrow  shalt  thou  eat  it  all  the  days  of  thy  life,  in  the 
sweat  of  thy  face  shalt  thou  eat  bread,  till  thou  return  u Wie- 
the ground  ;  for  out  of  it  wast  thou  taken  :  for  dust  tl  ou 
art,  and  unto  dust  shalt  thou  return"  Gen.  3.  17,  19. 
Whence  we  certainly  know,  that  all  things  which  receive 
life,  must  once  die:  this  David  clearly  testifies,  saying, 
_"  what  man  is  lie  that  liveth,  and  shall  not  t;ee  death  ?"  Ps. 
89.  48.  for  Solomon  saith,  "the  living  know  tnat  they  shall 
die,"  Eccl.  9.  5.  "  For  here  we  have  no  continuing  city, 
but  we  seek  one  to  corne,"  Heb.  13.  14.  And  to  the  He- 
brews, "  that  it  is  appointed  unto  men  once  to  die,  but  af- 
ter this  the  Judgment,"  Heb.  9.  27.  "  For  as  the  scrip- 
ture saith  :  we  must  needs  all  die,  and  are  as  water  spilt 
on  the  ground,  which  connotbe  gathered  up  again,"  2  Sam. 
14.  14.  "  For  our  days  (saith  Jcb)  are  like  tji<  da.j  ci  an 
hireling,  and  swifter  than  a  pest,"  Job  9.  25.  And  we  p^ss 
away  (saith  David)  like  a  stream,  yea  like  a  leal  which  the 


CONSOLATION  OF  THE  SICK.. 

driveth  aw..y,  and  a  withered  stalk  and  a  garment 

moth-eaten.     For  the  dust  must  return  to  the  earth,  as  it 

was,  and  the  spirit  unto  God  who  gave  it :  as   Job  saith, 

■;v/o  are  ashes  and   must   return  to  ashes,"    Eccl.  12.  7. 

wise  James  saith,  "  that  man's  life  is  even  a  vapour 

that  appearethibr  a  little  time  and  then  vanisheth  away," 

James  4.  14.    Yea  our  time  passeth  away  as  a  cioud  and 

is  consumed  like  a  mist,  and  vanisheth  as  a  shadow.     And 

Peter  also  saith   (quoting  from  Isaiah)  that  a.l  flesh   is 

-.,  and  all  the  glory  of  men,  as  the  flower  of  grass  ;  the 

withe  re  th  ;    and   the   flower  thereof  -faileth  away. 

Pet.  1.  21.     Again  Jesus  Syrach  saith,  this  is  the  old  co- 

t,  you  must  die  ; — .the  one  to-day  and  the  other  to- 
morrow, like  as  green  leaves  upon  a  tree,  some  fail  off, and 
ain  :  thus  it  goeth  with  mankind,  some  die 
lid  :;ome  arc  born.  As  Solomon  saith,  "  to  every  thing 
'here  is  a  season,  a  time  to  be  born,   and  a  time  to  die," 

3.  1.2.  And  this  time  is  in  the  hands  of  the  Lord, 
as  Job  saith,  man  hath  "  his  appointed  time,  the  number  of 
his  months  are  with  him,  he  has  appointed  our  bounds  that 
wo  cannot  pass,"  Job  14.  15.  Which  Paul  also  saith,  "that 
God  hath  determined  the  times  before  appointed,  and  the 
bounds  of  their  habitation,"  Acts  17.26.  And  David  saith, 
•■  that  our  days  are  as  an  hand-breadth  by  the  Lord,  and 
ige  is  as  nothing  before  him  :"  Ps.  39.  5.  How  vain 
are  all  men  who  live  so  unconcerned  ?  "  for  our  days  are 
lighter  than  a  weaver's  shuttle,  and  swifter  than  a  post," 
job  7.  6.  and  0.25.  Heb.  11.  13.  Moreover  we  are  here 
only  pilgrims  and  strangers  for  a  short  time.  "  For  the 
days  of  our  years  are  threescore  years  and  ten,  and  if  by 
>n  of  strength  they  be  fourscore  years,  yet  is  their 

;th,  labour  and  sorrow  ;  for  it  is  soon  cut  off,  and  we 
fly  away,"  Ps.  90.  10.  And  when  we  live  long,  we  live  an 
hundred  years ;  as  drops  of  water  are  to  the  sea,  so  are  our 

to  eternity.  And  Peter  saith,  "  that  one  day  is  with 
the  Lord  as  a  thou'».nd  years,  and  a  thousand  years  as  one 
day;"  2  Pet.  3.  8.  even  so  are  our  years  to  eternity,where- 
as then  we  must  all  die,  according  to  holy  scripture.  Who 
would  not  earnestly  wish  for  death,  when  we  behold  in  what 
state  and  ruin  we  are  plunged  through  Adam,  namdy,  in 

righteousness,  misery  and  trouble;  inasmuch  that 

c  wicked,  and  inclined  to  wickedness  from  our  very- 
infancy.  For  as  Paul  saith,  we  are  by  nature  the  children 
of  wrath,  and  reprobate  unto  every  good  work,  having  no- 


CONSOLATION  OF  THE  SICK.  113 

thing  of  ourselves  but  sin,  Fph.  2.  3.  .nd  Tit.  1.16.  As 
David  also  saith,  Fs.  14.  1,  «  there  is  none  that  doth  good, 
they  are  ail  gone  aside,  they  are  altogether  beeome  filthy, 
Rom.  17.  19,  "  For  the  good  that  we  would,  we  do  not,  by 
reason  of  sin  thutdwelieth  in  us.  Oi  this  inherent  sin, 
David  witnesseth,  Ps.  5  1 ,  that  we  are  conceived  and  born 
in  sin  and  proceed  in  the  same.  For  the  inclination  of 
men's  hearts  is  to  evil  from  their  youth. 

Thus  we  see  "that  God  is  no  respecter  of  persons  :" 
Acts  10.  34.  Rom.  3.  29,  30.  For  God  is  not  only  the  God 
of  the  Jews,  but  of  the  Gentiles  also  :  namely  he  is  a  God 
who  justifies  the  circumcision  by  faith,  and  uncircumcision 
through  faith  ;  for  he  hath  justified  us  by  faith,  without 
the  deeds  of  the  law.  After  which  manner  David  also 
speaks,  that  salvation  is  only  come  unto  the  man  to  whem 
God  imputeth  righteousness  without  works,  where  he 
saith,  "  Blessed  is  he  whose  transgressions  is  forgiven* 
whose  srn  is  covered.  Blessed  is  the  man  unto  whom  the 
Lord  imputeth  not  iniquity,"  Ps.  32.  1,2. 

Rom.  5.  1.  Therefore  being  justified  by  faith,  we  have 
peace  with  God  through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  by  whom 
wTe  have  a  certain  access  into  the  holy  place,  by  his  blood, 
whereby  he  hath  made  peace  between  God  and  us  ;  for  he 
is  our  true  peace,  wherefore  we  have  nothing  more  to  fear 
For  Paul  saith,  Rom  8.  31,  35,  34,  35,  "  If  Gcd  be  for  us, 
who  can  be  against  us  ?  Who  shall  lay  any  thing  to  the 
charge  of  God's  elect  ?  It  is  God  that  justifieth,  who  is  he 
that  condemneth  ?  It  is  Christ  that  died,  yea  rather  that 
has  risen  again,  who  is  even  at  the  right  hand  of  God,  who 
maketh  intercession  for  us  ;  who  shall  separate  us  from 
the  love  of  Christ  ?  shall  tribulation,  or  distress,  or  perse- 
cution, or  famine,  or  nakedness,  or  peril,  or  sword?" 
Therefore  though  we  have  the  daily  actual  and  other  sins 
remaining  in  us,  we  must  not  despair.  For  the  prophet 
Isaiah  saith,  "  though  your  sins  be  as  scarlet,  they  shall  be 
as  white  as  snow  :  though  they  be  red  like  crimson,  tbev 
shall  be  as  wool  :"  Isa.  1.18.  And  this  is  done  through 
Jesus  Christ,  who  hath  washed  away  our  sins  by  his  blood,, 
of  which  baptism  is  a  sign  ;  and  the  Lord's  supper  is  a  to^ 
ken  unto  us  that  we  are  redeemed  by  the  sacrifice  of  Christ 
once  offered  on  the  cross,  that  he  might  deliver  us  from 
the  wrath  to  come,  and  all  iniquity  ;  and  purify  unto  him- 
self a  peculiar  people,  zealous  of  good  works,  by  which  the 
Lord  maybe  praised.  Tit.  2.  24. 
K  2 


114  CONSOLATION  OF  THE  SICK. 

We  then  knowing  for  certain,  that  we  are  reconciled  to  God  by 
jesns  Christ,  ought  (according  to  the  word  of  God)  to  have  an 
earnest  desire  of  being  delivered  from  this  mortal  body,  by  which 
we  must  come  to  that  glorious  inheritance  of  all  the  children  of 
God,  which  is  prepared  for  us  in  heaven.  This,  Paul,  that  chosen 
vessel  of  God,  desires,  when  he  saith,  Rom.  7.  24.  "O  wretched 
man  that  I  am,  who  shall  deliver  me  from  the  body  of  this  death  ?" 
Moreover  he  saith,  2  Cor.  5  1.  «'  We  know  that  if  our  own  earth- 
ly house  of  this  tabernacle  weie  dissolved,  we  have  a  building  of 
God,  eternal  in  the  heavens;  for  in  this  we  groan  earnestly  desir- 
ing to  be  clothed  upon,  with  our  house  which  is  from  heaven,  and 
we  are  always  confident,  knowing  that  whilst  we  are  at  home  in 
the  body,  we  are  absent  from  the  Lord  ;  therefore  we  are  willing 
rather  to  be  absent  from  the  body,  and  to  be  present  with  the 
Lord."  2  Cor.  5.  2,  6,  and  8.  verses.  Again  Paul  saith,  Rom. 
S.  22.  we  know  ihat  the  whole  creation  groaneth  with  us,  and  not 
only  they,  but  we  ourselves,  groan  within  ourselves,  who  have 
?he  first  fruits  of  the  sprrir,  waiting  for  the  adoption,  to  wit,  the 
redemption  of  our  body.  And  since  we  are  pilgrims  and  strangers, 
who  would  not  desire  to  be  at  home  in  his  native  country  ?  For 
here  we  walk  in  absence,  and  in  faith,  but  not  in  sight,  M  For  now 
we  see  through  a  glass  darkly,  but  then  face  to  face,"  as  he  is. 
i  Cor.  13.  12.  Who  would  not  long  after  this  sight,  since  we  see 
that  'he  holy  men  of  God  have  craved  after  it  ?  As  we  read  in  the 
42  Psalm.  "As  the  hart  panteth  for  the  water  brooks,  so  panteth 
my  soul  after  thee,  O  God  !  My  soul  thirsteth  for  God,  for  the 
living  God  ;  when  shall  I  come  and  appear  before  God  ?  My  tea  s 
have  been  my  meat,  day  and  night,  while  they  continually  say  un- 
10  me,  where  is  thy  God  ?n  This  unutterable  glorious  sight  of  God 
is  so  great  (as  the  prophet  saith,  Isa.  64.  4.  1  Cor.  2.  9  )  "  That  eye 
hath  not  seen,  nor  ear  heard,  neither  hath  entered  into  the  heart 
of  man  the  things  which  God  hath  prepared  for  them  that  love 
him."  Agam  David  saith,  that  a  day  in  the  courts  of  the  Lord, 
is  better  than  a  thousand  ;  yet  I  had  rather  be  a  door-keeper  in 
rhe  house  of  God,  than  to  dwell  long  in  the  tents  of  wickedness. 
Ps.  84.  10.  '•  How  amiable  are  thy  tabernacles,  O  Lord  of  hosts  ! 
blessed  are  they  that  dwell  in  thy  house  :  Ps.  34.  1.  and  4.  "  they 
wiil  be  still  praising  tnee.  And  they  shall  be  abundantly  satisfi- 
ed with  the  fatness  of  thy  house,  and  thou  shah  make  them  drink 
of  the  river  of  thy  pleasures.  Ps.  36.  8.  and  9.  For  with  thee  is 
:he  fountain  of  life,  in  thy  light  shall  we  see  light  :"  this  is  the 
delightful  mansion  of  which  Christ  spake  by  John,  John  14.2. 
and  3  "  In  my  father's  house  are  many  mansions,  if  it  were  not 
so,  I  would  have  told  you.  I  go  to  prepare  a  place  for  you,  1  come 
again  and  receive  you  unto  myself,  that  where  I  am,  there  may 
vc  be  also;"  Rev.  21  23.  namely  in  the  new  Jerusalem,  which 
has  no  need  of  the  sun,  neither  of  the  moon,  for  the  glory  of  God 
lightens  it,  and  the  lamb  is  the  light  thereof.  There  God  will 
v/ipe  all  tears  away  from  our  eyes  and  death  shall  be  no  more  : 
which  is  the  laU  enemy  that  God  will  trample  under  his  feet- 
Then  God  hath  prepared  a  glorious  wedding,  where  we  shall  sitat 
the  table  of  the  Lord,  together  with  Abraham,  Isaac  and  Jacob  r 
and    blessed  are  they  who  sure  called  to  this  wedding  or  supper. 


CONSOLATION  OF  THE  SICK.  i;s 

We  cannot  come  to  this  supper  by  any  other  means  than  through 
death,  therefore  Paul  sai  h,  Phil.  i.  21.  "For  to  me  to  live  is 
'  Christ,  and  to  die  is  gain."  And  as  soon  as  the  faithful  depart 
from  hence,  they  enter  into^eternal  rest,  as  Christ  saith,  John  12. 
26.  "  Where  I  am,  there  shall  also  my  servants  be  "  Again, 
•*  He  that  heareth  aiy  word  and  believerh  on  him  that  sent  me,  hath 
•'everlasting  I  if*,  and  shall  not  come  into  condemnation,  but  is 
:i  passed  from  death  unto  life."  John  5.  14-  Which  is  also  plainly 
to  be  observed  in  the  melefactor,  when  he  prayed  and  said,  Lord 
remember  me  when  thou  comest  into  thy  kingdom.  Luke  23.  ver. 
42,  43.  Upon  which  Christ  answered  aim,  To-day  shalt  thou  be 
with  me  in  paradise.-  Therefore  Paul  justly  said  (agreeable  to  this) 
I  desire  to  depart  and  to  be  with  Christ.  Phil.  1.  23.  Solomon 
likewise  saith,  £ccl.  12.  7.  That  dust  must  return  to  the  earth  as 
it  was,  and  the  spirit  unto  God  wno  gave  it. — Which  also  evi- 
dently appears  in  the  example  of  Enoch  and  Elias  who  were  boih 
taken  up  into  heaven,  where  our  freedom  and  conversation  is; 
Phil.  3.  20.  21.  from  whence  also  we  look  for  the  Saviour,  the 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who  shall  change  our  vile  body,  that  it  may 
be  fashioned  like  unto  his  glorious  body.  And  we  cannot  arrive 
to  this  state  of  glory,  unless  through  much  tribulation,  of  which 
Jesus  Syrach  elegantly  speaks  ;  "  My  son,  ;saith  he;  if  thou  come 
«*  to  serve  the  Lord  prepare  thy  soul  for  temptation  :"  In  which 
thou  shalt  also  rejoice,  thou  who  hast  for  a  short  time,  mourned 
with  much  temptation  »»  But  the  God  of  all  grace,  who  hath  call- 
«'  ed  us  unto  his  eternal  glory  by  Christ  Jesus,  after  that  ye  have 
V  suffered  awhile  wiil  make  you  perfect,  stablish,  strengthen,  set- 
*f  tie  you."  l  Pet.  5.  20.  Again  Paul  saith,  If  so  be  that  we  suffer 
with  Christ,  we  shall  also  be  glorified  together.  Rom.  8.  17.  18. 
For  the  sufferings  of  this  present  time,  are  not  to  be  compared  with 
the  glory  which  shall  be  revealed  to  us.  2  Cor.  4.  17.  For  Our  af- 
fliction it>  temporal  and  light,  but  worketh  an  eternal  and  exceed- 
ing weight  of  glory. —  And  David  said,  Ps.  30.  5.  M  Weeping  may 
*'  endure  for  a  night,  but  joy  cometh  in  the  morning."  There- 
fore rejoice,  that  when  his  glory  shall  ;e  revealed  ye  may  be  glad 
also  with  exceeding  joy.  1  Pet.  4.  13.  Christ  hath  also  suffered 
without  the  gate,  therefore  let  us  also  go  forth  unto  him  without 
the  camp,  bearing  his  reproach.  For  herein  hath  Christ  left  us 
an  example,  that  we  should  follow  his  steps.  Heb-  13.  12,  13. 
Again  Peter  saith,  Forasmuch  then,  as  Christ  hath  suffeied  for  us 
in  the  flesh,  arm  yourselves  likewise  with  the  same  mind.  1  Vet. 
2.  21.  For  he  that  suffereth  in  the  flesh  ceaseth  from  sin.  1  Pet. 
4.  1.  Moreover  the  apostle  James  also  saith,  my  beloved  brethren, 
count  it  all  joy  when  you  fall  in  divers  temptations.  James  1.2. 
And  Paul  liKewise  sairh.  Rom.  5  3.  4,  and  5.  We  glory  in  tri- 
bulations, knowing  that  tribulation  worketh  patience,  and  pa- 
tience, experience  ;  and  experience  hope,  and  hope  maketh  us  not 
ashamed.  For  which  reason  we  must  not  despise  the  chastening 
of  the  Lord,  when  we  are  rebuked  of  him;  for  whom  the  Lord 
loveth  he  chasteneth,  and  he  scourgeth  every  son  whom  he  receiv- 
ed ;  which  may  be  seen  at  large  in  the  12  chap,  of  the  epistle  to 
the   Hebrews,  be  therefore  patient,  and  stablish  your  hearts,  foe 


116         CONSOLATION  OF  THE  SICK. 

the  coming  of  the  Lord  dra wet h  nigh.  James  5.  8,  10,  and  11. 
Take  also  the  prophets  for  an  example  of  suffering  affliction,  and 
of  patience;  we  count  them  happy  which  endure,  'for  we  have 
heard  of  the  patience  of  Job.  and  have  seen  the  end  of  the  Lord," 
who  have  left  us  an  example  of  perseverance.  "  For  we  see  that 
Christ  for  the  suffering  of  death,  hath  been  crowued  with  never 
fading  honour."  Heb.  2.  9.  Therefore  Christ  also  saith,  "  he  that 
endureth  to  the  end  shall  be  saved.-  Mat  10.  22.  and  rhe  apostle 
Paul  saith,  2  Tim.  4.  7,  and  8  '  I  have  fought  a  good  fight,  I  have 
finished  my  course,  I  have  kept  the  faith,  henceforth  ther<j  is  laid 
up  for  me  a  crown  of  righteousness,  which  the  Lord  sh  ill  give 
me ;  and  nor  only  to  me,  bat  unto  all  them  that  love  his  appearing." 
Likewise  James  saith,  1.  12.  "blessed  is  the  man  that  endureth 
temptation,  for  when  he  is  tried,  he  shall  receive  the  crown  of 
life,  which  the  Lord  hath  promised  to  them  that  love  him." 

To  obtain  ?his  crown  of  righteousness,  we  must  manfully  fight 
against  all  our  enemies,  who  attack  us  on  all-sides:  particularly 
against  the  wiles  of  the  devil,  against  which  put  on  the  whole 
armour  of  God,  with  which  you  will  be  able  to  withstand  the  de- 
vil and  all  his  might.  Peter  speaking  of  his  fight  sai.h,  «■  that  the 
devil  walketh  about  as  a  roaring  lion  seeking  whom  he  may  de- 
vour:" 1  Pet.  5.  8.  9.  "  whom  resist  stedfast  in  the  faith,  and  he 
will  flee  from  you  "  This  victory  and  resistance  we  have  of  God 
through  Christ,  who  tramples  the  devil  under  our  feet,  in  whose 
power  and  bonds  we  were  bound.  He  is  the  prince  of  this  world 
whom  Christ  hath  cast  out;  and  we  have  likewise  tluough  him 
obtained  the  victory,  and  are  also  ihrough  faith  made  partakers 
of  him.  He  is  the  old  serpent  who  seeks  to  devour  us,  who  did 
devour  our  first  parents,  and  who  still  bires  us  in  .he  heel,  where- 
fore he  is  called  a  murderer  from  the  beginning. 

Therefore  we  must  bs  diligent  on  our  guard  against  his  wiles 
as  Peter  saith,  be  sober  and  watch  unto  prayer.  1  Pet  4-  7-  For 
as  Christ  saith,  we  know  neither  the  day  nor  the  hour  wherein 
the  Lord  will  come.  Mat.  25.  13.  But  this  ye  know  that,  if  the 
good  man  of  the  house  had  known  what  hour  the  thief  would 
come,  he  would  have  watched.  Luke  12.  39.  40.  45.  and  46. 
Be  ye  ready  therefore  also,  for  the  son  of  man  will  come  at  an 
hour  when  we  watch  not,  but  begin  to  beat  our  fellow  setvaats, 
and  to  eat  and  drink  with  'he  drunkards ;  then  the  Lord  will  come, 
an  i  cut  us  in  sunder,  and  our  portion  will  be  with  the  hypocrites  : 
Mark  9.  24.  there  w'.li  be  weeping  and  gnashing  of  teeth,  there 
the  worm  never  die'h,  and  the  fire  is  not  quenched.  For  we  cer- 
tainly know  that  the  day  of  the  Lord  will  come  a*  a  ihief  in  the 
night,  when  we  shall  say,  peace  and  safety,  then  sudden  destruc- 
tion will  come  upon  us,  as  travail  upon  a  woman  with  child. 
2  Pet.  3.  10.  Therefore  take  heed  to  yourselves  lest  at  any  time 
your  hearts  be  overcharged  with  surfeiting  and  drunkenness  and 
cares  of  this  life,  and  so  that  day  come  upon  \ou  unawares. 
Luke  21.  34.  For  as  a  snare,  or  as  lightning  which  comes  sud- 
denly, shall  it  come  0.1  us  all.  Luke  21.  35,  and  j6.  vvatch 
therefore  and  pray  always,  that  ye  may  be  accounted  worthy  to 
escape  all  these  things,,  that  shall  come  to  pass,  and  to  stand  un- 


CONSOLATION  OF  THE  SICK.  117 

Jaunted  before  the  Son  of  Man.  But  this  worthiness  to  stand  be- 
fore the  Son  of  Man  consists  in  a  pure,  undefiled  and  immoveable 
faith  which  worketh  through  love,  by  which  we  receive  and  em- 
brace Christ  with  ail  his  merics  and  benefits.  Which  faith  wc 
must  shew  by  a  pure  life.  As  Jarres  saith,  and  of  this  purity- 
Christ  sp«aks  by  Mitthew,  blessed  are  the  pure  in  heart,  for  they 
shall  see  God.  Mar.  5.  8.  And  the  principal  purity  lies  in  the 
heart,  for  as  Christ  saith,  out  of  the  heart  proceed  evil  thoughts, 
murders,  adulteries,  fornications,  thefts,  false  n  itness  and  blas- 
phemies: these  things  defile  a  man.  Mat.  15.  19,  and  20.  There- 
fore the  fruits  of  the  Spirit  follow,  which  are  love,  joy,  peace, 
long  suffering,  gentleness,  goodness,  faith,  meekness,  charity, 
righteousness,  and  truth.  Gal.  5.  22,  and  23.  Therefore  unless 
we  are  born  again,  we  cannot  see  the  kingdom  of  God.  Mat  3.  3. 
Yea,  as  Christ  saith,  except  ye  repent  and  become  as  children 
(to  wit  in  sin)  ye  shall  not  enter  into  the  kingdom  of  heaven. 
Mark  10.  14.  There  shall  nothing  enter  into  it  that  defileth, 
neither  whatsoever  wcrketh  abomination,  or  maketh  a  He,  Rev. 
21.  27.  as  Paul  likewise  clearly  testifieth. 

Since  then  the  law  of  God  requires  this  perfection  of  us,  as  it 
is  written,  cursed  is  every  one  who  doth  not  keep  the  whole  law. 
As  James  also  saith,  Whosoever  offendeth  in  one  point,  he  is 
guilty  of  all.  Jam.  2.  10.  Again,  whosoever  doth  the  law  shall 
live  by  it;  but  we_  do  not  keep  the  least  commandment  perfectly. 
As  the  wise  man  saith,  when  we  imagine  we  have  done,  we  only 
begin  (and  in  case  we  did  do  it,  we  only  do  our  duty)  wherefore 
we  are  by  the  law  condemned  in  God's  righteous  judgment  ;  for 
this  we  nave  a  sure  remedy  and  cure,  namely,  Christ  who  hath 
redeemed  us  (as  Paul  saith)  from  the  curse  of  the  law,  GaL 
3.  13.  And  hath  satisfied  the  righteousness  of  God  for  us,  mak- 
ing reconciliation ;  and  who  hath  broken  down  that  wall  which 
was  between  us,  namely  the  law,  contained  in  ordinances,  and 
forgiven  us  our  sins,  and  torn  the  hand-writing  of  them, and  nail- 
ed it  to  the  cross;  for  this  great  love  of  Chriat,  we  ought  also  to 
love  him,  and  to  be  thankful  to  him,  with  good  works,  and  veri- 
ly to  believe  in  him,  for  the  gift  of  all  these  excellent  benefits  ; 
for  he  that  cometh  to  God,  must  believe  that  he  is  a  re  warder  of 
them  that  seek  h>'m;  for  the  just  shall  live  by  his  fa'uh.  Keb. 
11.  5.  Therefore  we  conclude  that  a  man  is  justified  by  faith, 
without  the  deeds  of  the  law  ;  Heb.  2.  4.  Rom.  3.  28.  and  although 
we  suffer  a  little  with  Christ,  we  must  not  despair,  for  we  see 
that  Christ  himself,  when  he  was  smote  for  our  sins,  did  not 
smite  again,  but  suffered  patiently;  and  if  the  ungodly  live  in 
great  prosperity,  as  David  and  the  prophets  restify,  we  must  not 
marvel,  neither  stumbltr,  but  comfort  ourselves,  being  assured 
that  their  end  is  everlasting  death.  He  lets  them  go  as  sheep  to 
the  slaughter,  therefore  it  is  noi  to  be  wondered  at  that  the  faith- 
ful meet  with  no  mere  crosses,  it*  comparison  to  the  glorious 
joy  which  is  prepared  for  them;  and  on  the  contrary,  that  the  un- 
godly have  no  more  prosperity,  than  they  have,  in  comparison  to 
the  dreadful  damnation  which  attends  them.  Therefore  if  the 
trial  of  believen  is  not  .ijike,  so  neither  shall  the  resurrection  of 


118  CONSOLATION  OF  THE  SICK. 

the  dead  be  alike,  And  in  this  we  have  great  comfort,  that  all 
believers  will  rise  at  the  last  day  ;  of  which  Paul  reasoning,  saith , 
'i  Cor.  15.  If  the  dead  rise  not,  then  is  not  Christ  risen,  then  is 
our  preaching  vain,  and  we  are  found  false  witnesses  of  God. 
The  mannerof  our  resurrection  we  may  read  in  the  37th  chap,  of 
Ezekiel,  How  that  we  shall  rise  with  fi>sh  and  bones.  And  JoI» 
also  saith,  Job  19.  I  know  that  my  redeemer  iiveth,  and  will 
hereafter  raise  me  up  out  of  the  earth,  and  that  I  shall  be  cover- 
ed with  my  skin,  and  in  my  own  flesh,  see  God;  likewise  the 
prophet  Isaiah  saith,  thai  the  earth  and  the  sea  shall  give  up  the 
dead  which  have  slept  in  them,  for  Christ  is  the  resurrection,  the 
first  of  them  that  slept.  But  yoa  must  not  be  ignorant  concern- 
ing then  which  are  asleep,  that  ye  sorrow  not  even  as  others, 
which  have  no  hope.  1  T'hess  4  13  to  17.  For  if  we  believe  that 
Jesus  died  and  rose  again,  even  so  those  also  which  sleep  in  Jesus, 
will  God  bring  with  him,  for  this  we  say  as  a  true  word  of  God  ; 
that  we.  which  are  alive  ani  remain  unto  the  coming  of  the  Lord, 
shall  not  prevent  them  which  are  asleep,  for  the  Lord  himself, 
shall  descend  from  heaven  with  a  shout,  with  the  voice  of  the 
archangel,  and  with  the  trump  of  God,  and  the  dead  in  Christ 
shall  rise  first ;  then  we  which  are  alive  and  remain,  shall  be 
caught  up  together  with  them  in  the  clouds,  to  meet  the  Lord  in 
the  a:r.  Where  we  must  appear  before  the  judgment  seat  of 
Christ:  where  every  one  will  receive  according  to  that  he  hath 
done,  whether  it  he  good  or  bad.  2  Cor.  5.  10.  Then  Christ 
▼•ill  separate  the  sheep  f»-om  the  goats,  and  the  sheep  will  be  set 
on  his  right  hand,  who  shall  hear  the  delightful  voice,  come  ye 
blessed,  inherit  the  kingdom  of  my  Father  prepared  for  you  from 
the  foundation  of  the  world.  There  we  shall  stand  with  greater 
confidence  against  those  who  have  distressed  us:  then  we  shall 
shine  forth  as  the  sun  in  the  kingdom  of  our  Father,  there  we 
shall  come  to  the  hope  of  an  innumerable  company  of  angels. 
There  we  shall  reign  from  eternity  to  eternity,     Amen. 

"  Blessed  are  they  whose  names  are  written  in  the  book  of  life." 
End  of  the   Consolation  of  the   Sick, 


THE  CREED.  119 

The    Confession    of   Faith,  comfiosed  in   the   Council  of 
A'ice,  in   the    Year   of  our  Lord,   325. 

WE  believe  in  one  God,  the  Father  Almighty,  Maker  of 
heaven  and  earth,  aid  of  all  things  visible  and  invisible  : 
and  in  one  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  the  only  begotten  Son  of  God, 
begotten  of  his  Father,  before  all  worlds  ;  God  of  God,  Light  of 
Light,  very  God  of  very  God,  begotten  not  made,  being  of  one 
substance  with  the  Father,  by  whom  all  things  were  made;  who 
for  us  men,  and  for  our  salvation,  came  down  from  heaven,  and 
was  incarnate  by  the  holy  Ghost  cf  the  virgin  Mary,  and  was 
made  man,  and  was  crucified  also  for  us  under  Pontius  Pilate. 
He  suffered  and  was  buried,  and  the  third  day  he  rose  again  ac- 
cording to  the  scriptures,  and  ascended  into  heaven,  and  sitteth 
on  the  right  hand  of  the  Father-  And  he  shall  come  again  with 
glory  to  judge  both  the  quick  and  the  dead  ;  whose  kingdom  shall 
have  no  end.  And  in  the  holy  Ghost,  who  spake  by  the  prophets. 
And  one  holy  Catholick  and  Apostolic  church.  I  acknowledge  one 
baptism  for  the  remission  of  sins,  and  I  look  for  the  resurrec-, 
tion  of  the  dead,  and  the  life  of  the  world  to  come,  Amen. 


The    Creed  cf  St.  Aihanasius,   Bishofi  cf  Alexandria, 
written  in  the  Year  of  our  Lord,  333. 

i  TIThosoevek  will  be  saved,  before  all  things  it  is  necessary 
VV  that  he  hold  the  Catholic  faith. — 2.  Which  faith  except 
one  do  keep  whole  and  undefiled,  without  doubt  he  shall  perish 
everlastingly. — 3.  The  Catholic  Faith  is  this,  that  we  worship  one 
God  in  Tt  inity,  and  Trinity  in  Unity. — 4.  Neither  confounding  the 
Persons  nor  dividing  the  Substance. — 5.  For  there  is  one  Person  of 
the  Father,  another  of  the  Son,  and  another  of  the  Holy  Ghost. — 
6.  But  the  Godhead  of  the  Father,  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy 
Ghost  is  all  one;  the  Glory  equal,  and  the  Majesty  co-eternal. — 7, 
Such  as  the  Father  is,  such  is  the  Son,  and  such  is  the  Holy  Ghost. 
— 8.  The  Father  uncreated,  the  Son  uncreated,  and  the  Holy  Ghost 
uncreated. — y.The  Father  incomprehensible,  the  Son  incomprehen- 
sible, and  the  Holy  Ghost  incomprehensible. — 10.  The  Fathereter- 
nal,  the  Son  eternal,  and  the  Holy  Ghost  eternal. — 11.  And  yet 
they  are  not  three  Eternals  :  but  one  Eternal. — 12.  As  also  there 
are  not  three  Incompreheosibles,  nor  three  Uncreated,  but  one  Un- 
created, and  one  Incomprehensible. — 13.  So  likewise  the  Father  is 
almighty,  the  Son  almighty,  and  the  Holy  Ghost  almighty. — 14. 
And  yet  they  are  not  three  almighties,  but  one  Almighty. — 15.  So 
the  Father  is  God,  the  Son  is  God,  and  the  Holy  Ghost  is  God. — 
16.  And  yet  there  are  not  three  Gods,  but  oneGod. — 17.  So  likewise 
the  Father  is  Lcrd,  the  Son  Lord,  and  the  Holy  Ghos:  Lord. — 
i3.  And  )et  not  three  Lords,  but  one  Lord  —  19  For  like  as  we  are 
compelled  by  the  Christian  Truth  to  acknowledge  eve/y  Person  by 
himself  to  be  Gcd  and  Lord. — 20.  So  we  are  forbidden  by  the  Ca- 
tholic Faith,  to  sa),  there  be  three  Gcds,  or  three  Lords. — 2t.  The 


ISO  THE  CREED. 

Father  is  made  of  none,  neither  created  nor  begotten. — 22.  The  So* 
is  of  the  Father  alone,  not  made*  nor  created,  but  begotten. — 23, 
The  Holy  Ghost  is  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  neither  made, 
nor  created,  nor  begotten,  but  proceeding.-— 24.  So  there  is  one  Fa- 
ther, not  three  Fathers  ;  one  Son.  not  three  Sons  ;  one  Holy  Ghost, 
not  three  Koly  Ghosts.- — 25.  And  in  this  Trinity,  there  is  not  First 
or  Last,  nor  greater  or  less  —26  But  the  whole  three  Persons  are 
co-eternal  together,  and  co-equal. — 27.  So  that  in  all  Things,  as  it 
5s  aforesaid,  the  Unity  in  Trinity,  and  Trinity  in  Unity  is  to  be 
worshipped. — 28.  He  therefore  that  will  be  saved,  must  thus  think 
of  the  Trinity. — 29.  Furthermore  it  is  necessary  to  everlasting  Sal- 
vation, that  he  also  believe  rightly  the  Incarnation  of  our  Lord  Je- 
sus Christ. — 30.  For  the  right  Faith,  is  that  we  believe  and  con- 
fess, that  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  the  Son  of  God,  is  Godand  Man. 
— 31.  God  of  the  Substance  of  the  Father,  begotten  before  the 
World;  Perfect  God,  and  Perfect  Man,  having  a  reasonable  Soul 
and  a  human  Body. — 33.  Equal  to  the  Father  according  to  his  God- 
head :  and  inferior  to  the  Father  as  to  his  Manhood. — 34.  Whoal- 
tho'  he  be  God  and  Man,  yet  he  is  not  two  but  one  Christ. — 35. 
One,  not  by  conversion  of  the  Godhead  into  Flesh,  but  by  taking 
of  the  Manhood  into  God  — 36.  He  is  not  one  by  Mixture  of  Sub- 
stance, but  by  Unity  of  Person. — 37.  For  as  the  reasonable  Soul,  and 
Flesh  is  one  Man  ;  so  God  and  Man  is  one  Christ. — 38.  Who  suf- 
fered for  our  Salvation,  descended  into  Hell,  rose  again  the  third 
Day  from  the  Dead. — 39.  He  ascended  into  Heaven,  sits  at  the  right 
Hand  of  God  the  Father  Almighty. — 40  From  whence  he  shall 
come  to  judge  the  Quick  and  the  Dead — 41.  At  whose  coming,  all 
J.len  shall  rise  again  with  their  Bodies.— 42.  And  shall  give  Ac- 
count for  their  own  Works  —43.  And  they  that  have  done  Good, 
shall  go  into  Life  everlasting  ;  and  they  that  have  done  Evil,  inro 
everlasting  Fire. — 44-  This  is  the  Catholic  Faith,  which  except  a 
?»!an  believe  faithfully,  he  cannot  be  saved- 


THK  F.ND. 


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